Dec 13, 2018 - Economy

New York AG sues Target, Walmart for selling lead-contaminated toys

Marisa Fernandez

Target walmart photo joiner of store fronts — Photos: Getty Images

New York Attorney General Barbara Underwood filed suit Thursday against Target, Walmart and LaRose Industries in Albany County Supreme Court due to the alleged sale of lead-contaminated children's toys.

Details: Underwood said in a statement that companies allegedly "committed thousands of violations of multiple state laws by selling Cra-Z-Jewelz" kits with high lead content. Toy parts from the kits were imported by LaRose and distributed and sold at New York Targets and Walmarts between 2015 and 2016, prompting a nationwide recall. Underwood's office is seeking civil penalties for each toy sold as well as a court order to prevent lead-contaminated toys from reaching store shelves.

“We take our customers’ safety seriously and require our suppliers to meet all safety standards. As soon as LaRose Industries made us aware of the product recall nearly three years ago, we removed the items from our shelves and online and haven’t sold them since. We’ve discussed this matter with the New York Attorney General’s office and will address the allegations and demands with the court.”

— Walmart in a statement to Axios

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New York AG sues Target, Walmart for selling lead-contaminated toys

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