A Day in the Life of …

TIA Staff Spotlight

July 22, 2016 | Ever wonder what a member of the Toy Industry Association’s (TIA) advocacy team does on a day-to-day basis? Toy News Tuesday editors recently sat down with Mindy Baker, TIA director of state government affairs, to find out just that. Check out our recent Q&A with Mindy to discuss her role at TIA and the steps she takes to advocate for members’ interests across the country.

In which states do you represent TIA members?

I’m one of TIA’s three state government affairs directors. Combined, we represent members in all 50 states plus Puerto Rico. I proudly advocate for TIA members in Illinois (where I’m based), as well as companies in 22 additional states, from Florida to Montana.

What issues do you work on?

There is often state and local legislation aimed at regulating the composition of children's products. A catalyst for these bills could include, for example, non-harmful traces of unreacted residual chemicals that naturally occur during some manufacturing processes.

Depending on how this information is presented, it can seem alarming to the untrained eye. I work with government officials to educate them about how TIA members comply with strict federal standards and exercise due diligence with regard to the safety of their products – whether they are made stateside or overseas. TIA has consistently maintained that state laws should align with the strong federal standards that have governed toy safety for years.

I also collaborate with members to identify and work on emerging topics, like online privacy and drone registration. It’s my responsibility to inform legislators and the public that our members care just as much as consumers about safeguarding privacy.

What are some issues you’ve advocated for recently?

I’ve attended government hearings on various issues, from non-harmful chemicals and flame retardants to battery recycling programs and product recalls. Part of my job is also to publicly question the validity of dubious claims and accusations made by NGOs at these hearings.

Given the deep commitment our members have to safety and the numerous tests that our companies bring to their products, I try to lead the dialogue on safety and help families make appropriate choices and ensure safe play.

What would members find interesting about you?

I have more than 15 years of state government affairs experience, most recently at Walgreens. In addition to being a zealous advocate for our members, I am an equally passionate cat lover, especially of my rescued, one-eyed Devon Rex! I am also a self-proclaimed geek and science fiction fan as well as an ace tabletop board game player, so I’ve probably bought many members’ products over the years.

Contact Mindy Baker, director of state government affairs, by email or phone (773.441.1930).