CPSC chair
This article was originally published in The Tan Sheet
Executive Summary
Consumer Product Safety Commission could receive a new head by May 1. Senate Commerce Committee nomination hearing for Harold Stratton was held April 25; Sens. Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) questioned Stratton about free-market stands he has taken to protect businesses from government interference. Stratton appeared to satisfy concerns, though, noting as AG of New Mexico, he oversaw state's only consumer protection agency. Committee likely will send nomination to Senate for full vote; deadline to fill CPSC post is May 1, which signals expiration of six-month quorum period for two commissioners. Stratton's smooth hearing contrasts with that of President Bush's original nominee, Mary Sheila Gall, who faced stiff opposition from committee Democrats (1"The Tan Sheet" Aug. 6, 2001, p. 6)...