From Chronicle staff
3rd Congressional District Rep. Marie Grusenkamp Perez (D-Washougal) has introduced a bipartisan bill that would prevent a potential monopoly on saws equipped with finger detection technology.
On Tuesday, Rep. Grusenkamp Perez introduced a bill co-sponsored by Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.) to preserve woodworking traditions and prevent government-mandated monopolies.
In 2004, table saw maker SawStop developed a technology that instantly stops the saw blade when it senses a finger, the lawmakers said. The technology is only available on SawStop blades and is more expensive to purchase and maintain, according to a news release from the congressman.
In November, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) proposed a rule that would require both household and industrial table saws to be equipped with the technology within three years. Although Sourcetop has promised to terminate its patents on the effective date if the rule is finalized, competitors face potential risk of litigation if they begin research and development.
Lawmakers argue that this delay could create monopolies and increase the use of more dangerous devices.
“When the federal government considers safety regulations, it does not raise costs, limit options, or induce people to seek riskier alternatives,” Grusenkamp Perez said in a statement. It is important to consider ways to avoid this.” “The Consumer Product Safety Commission's proposed mandates on finger detection technology could create monopolies and buy out small rural woodworkers and tradesmen like me at high prices. We are introducing this legislation to ensure that other saw manufacturers have time to catch up and bring low-cost finger detection technology to market before the restrictions take effect.”
If passed, the bill would prevent the CPSC from enforcing table saw rules for at least five years after the relevant patents expire.
“While we believe finger detection technology is a great safety enabler, the Consumer Product Safety Commission cannot force market adoption of patented technology,” Duncan said in a statement. . “As long as patents are valid, companies cannot begin implementing safety technologies without being sued by patent holders. We're proud to offer solutions that balance the prevention of problems and provide affordable product choices for Americans.”
