On January 30, The Toy Association™ submitted comments to the California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) in response to the agency’s request for information regarding consumer products that contain or generate microplastics, including children’s toys. DTSC is seeking data related to the potential for products to shed microplastics and whether exposure may result in adverse impacts.
In its submission, The Toy Association emphasized the toy industry’s longstanding commitment to safety and sustainability, highlighting that toys sold in the U.S. are already subject to rigorous federal oversight and comprehensive safety standards, including ASTM F963, which is incorporated into federal regulation under the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). The Association noted that these standards address material composition, durability, and intended use, and are widely recognized as among the most robust toy safety requirements globally.
The comments also state that currently available data does not support the need for additional toy-specific regulations related to microplastics. Research on human and environmental exposure from children’s toys remains limited, while existing standards and testing requirements continue to demonstrate the safety of products currently on the market. The Association also pointed out that primary microplastics represent a relatively small segment of overall toy sales, indicating that further restrictions would be unlikely to meaningfully alter exposure scenarios.
The Toy Association further encouraged DTSC to consider alignment with established international frameworks, noting that existing European Union measures addressing glitter and microplastics are narrowly tailored to loose substances rather than finished toy articles. The submission cautioned that broader regulation could exceed global norms and introduce practical and safety challenges.
Finally, the Association raised concerns about certain proposed material alternatives, explaining that some substitutes may present their own safety risks or lack the durability and functional performance necessary for safe, engaging play.
Click here to read the full comments.
The Toy Association will continue to keep the industry apprised of developments regarding state regulations. For more information on The Toy Association’s advocacy initiatives at the state level or to join the State Government Affairs Committee, members may contact Charlotte Hickcox, director of state government affairs (Eastern states) and Lindsey Hueer, senior manager of state government affairs (Western states).