New legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives to regulate the cosmetic industry. Known as the Safe Cosmetics Act of 2011, the bill would set up governmental regulations in order to protect consumers from suffering illnesses that have been linked to chemicals found in cosmetic products.

Among the bill's many regulations, it would require that cosmetic companies perform random sample tests of their products, much like food companies do. Cosmetic companies would also be prohibited from using chemicals, such as formaldehyde, that have long been shown to cause health problems. Also, the FDA woud have the authority to issue recalls of cosmetic products if it finds them to be unsafe.

The bill was created by three state representatives who are hoping to protect cosmetic industry workers and consumers with this new legislation.

If you or someone you love has suffered from health problems caused by an unsafe product, such as a cosmetic product, please contact the Cedar Rapids product liability lawyers of the Pete Leehey Law Firm, P.C., at 319-294-4424.