BULLETIN Winter 2020 | Volume 82 | Number 2

NCL leading fight against widespread increase in scams preying on COVID pandemic

Since the start of the pandemic, all of us and advocacy efforts. Starting who fight fraud have seen a dismaying in the spring, NCL began spike in scams. The unprecedented risks to hosting a series of virtual Americans’ health and economic security fireside chats with state have been matched by a groundswell of Attorneys General and panels new scams, emerging in a variety of forms. of local consumer protection From fake websites selling in-demand experts from across the cleaning products, to phony COVID country. The virtual events contact tracers, America’s consumers are have been open to the public being bombarded by scams and frauds. and broadcast on NCL’s YouTube channel, seeking The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to educate consumers in reported that losses to social media-based the states on the growing NCL’s Breyault (top left) hosts a virtual fireside chat with scams cost consumers a record total of threat of scams linked to the consumer advocates in November, the latest in $117 million—just in the first half of 2020. COVID-19 pandemic and a series of YouTube events educating consumers about “Scammers follow the headlines,” said what their local governments how scammers are taking advantage of the pandemic to NCL’s John Breyault, vice president of are doing about it. prey on targets. public policy on telecommunications and NCL’s Breyault hosted chats with Messenger and package delivery scams, fraud, and director of NCL’s work on fraud. Attorneys General Aaron Ford of Nevada, and in frauds targeting back-to-school “During times of natural disasters and Daniel Cameron of Kentucky, and North shoppers, those seeking unemployment economic crisis, we can count on seeing Carolina’s Josh Stein. The AGs have shared benefits, and gig economy workers. scammers come out of the woodwork. what they are hearing from consumers, This pandemic is posing never-before- “Our work in fraud prevention and what tactics they are pursuing to reach seen challenges for consumers, and while education has never been more relevant— the most vulnerable populations, and it’s not entirely unique, it is certainly on a and important to consumers,” said NCL the importance of collaboration with vastly larger scale.” Executive Director Sally Greenberg. “I organizations like NCL for getting key am proud of how our staff have risen to Sharp rises in fraudulent activity have messages out to consumers. Featured the occasion, identifying new ways to inspired an increase in NCL’s education guests from partner organizations such help consumers during this particularly as AARP, the Better Business Bureau, difficult economic period.” Inside This Issue and NAACP have joined the meetings to Volume 82 | Number 2 | Winter 2020 offer their perspectives on challenges and In July, Greenberg testified at a House opportunities. Consumer Protection Subcommittee— hosted virtually, of course—on the topic Letter from Sally Greenberg page 2 Like the FTC, NCL’s Fraud.org project of “Consumers Beware: Increased Risks 2020 Trumpeter Awards page 3 has seen an uptick in complaints about During the COVID-19 Pandemic.” The a variety of COVID-19 scams preying Recycling in America page 4 invitation to testify was the result of the on vulnerable, financially strapped, and LifeSmarts: Where are they now? page 6 considerable work NCL has done to raise fearful consumers. NCL has devoted Fighting child labor in cocoa page 8 awareness about scams linked to the monthly Fraud Alerts to spotlight Defending clothing labels page 9 COVID-19 pandemic. pandemic-era scams, giving consumers Health policy updates page 10 the tools needed to spot them and avoid To learn more about the scams NCL is Consumers for Safe CBD at one year page 11 falling victim. Monthly Fraud Alerts have tracking, visit its newly redesigned Fraud. focused on utility shut-offs, Facebook org. NCL Bulletin Volume 82 Number 2

What. A. Year. Trumpeter Awards Program goes virtual to honor Dear Readers, dedicated leaders

As we turn the page on 2020, it is with This fall, NCL hosted the first-ever somber appreciation for our personal virtual broadcast of the Trumpeter health and safety. And it is also with the event, our annual awards presentation utmost thanks—due to our hardworking and celebration of consumer and worker staff and dedicated supporters—for advocacy. Due to the pandemic and the way NCL has weathered the storms restrictions on in-person gatherings, posed by this historic year of pandemic, this year’s event went digital, with the economic insecurity, social unrest, and hour-long broadcast going live online on divisive politics. October 6. When the pandemic first hit in the spring, “Who could have ever imagined, back we had no way of anticipating what the in 1973 when NCL leaders presented months ahead had in store for NCL. As Senator Ted Kennedy with the inaugural we witnessed the ways the coronavirus Trumpeter Award, that we would be was threatening our health and economic celebrating in this format nearly a half- security, we quickly realized that our century later,” said NCL Director of work on behalf of consumers and workers Development Karen Silberstein. She and was crucially important. The staff of the colleagues spent months planning and Due to restrictions on in-person gatherings, for the first time in its 47-year history, the Trumpeter Awards presentation went virtual, with the broadcast taking place online on National Consumers League got to work Sally Greenberg testifies before Congress about COVID scams at a virtual hearing of the executing the virtual broadcast—a first for October 6. like never before. We ramped up our House Consumer Protection Subcommittee. the annual fundraising effort. advocacy efforts on a variety of issues— The broadcast included remarks by NCL to closing the homework gap has COVID testing and vaccines, fighting new personal finance columnist Michelle with some of the hundreds of thousands Executive Director Sally Greenberg, awards forms of fraud, and protecting the most Singletary—who offered congratulations of young adults who participated in our set her apart as a leader at the presentations, and short films about the FCC. Vicky Nguyen’s reporting vulnerable workers. and encouragement. See page 3 for more LifeSmarts program over its 27 years, history of the award and NCL’s advocacy on this year’s event, honorees, and ways we and we were delighted to hear about the has helped millions of Americans We also mourned the loss of the great work in response to issues created by the sort through crucial information Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and we made the celebration special. positive impact the program has had. I novel coronavirus for consumers and encourage you to read more about these and distracting misinformation steeled ourselves for a volatile political This fall, we released new research about workers. The presentation also featured during the coronavirus crisis. season. We joined 95 worker and consumer the state of recycling in America, where young people, our other programs, and video greetings from former honorees, new NCL staff in this issue ofThe Bulletin. And General Racine’s office groups in opposition to the nomination of consumers produce an average of 4.5 including AFL-CIO President Richard has been busier than ever, Amy Coney Barrett to replace RBG on the pounds of waste each day—of which only As we face the significant challenges Trumka, journalist Herb Weisbaum, Sara helping protect the residents of Court. We also opposed the nomination about a third is recycled or composted. presented by this historic pandemic, NCL Nelson, international president of the the District of Columbia from of Nancy Beck to serve as a chair of the So many Americans are in the dark about will to continue to fight tirelessly for a fair Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, scammers, fraudsters, and Consumer Product Safety Commission, which of the packaging they purchase is marketplace and safe workplace for all and Nobel Laureate Kailash Sathyarthi. unscrupulous businesses. The Trumpeter 2020 awardee, journalist Vicky Nguyen, and we issued our support for the long actually recyclable. (Read about our report Americans. We have found inspiration in CNN’s Maria Cardona hosted a panel National Consumers League is shows off her award during the web broadcast. overdue revival of the White House Office on page 4.) our nation's progress towards developing a discussion with the honorees following the honored to pay tribute to these of Consumer Affairs. awards presentations. We are renewing efforts started back in safe and effective vaccine and are hopeful deserving individuals.” for the future. On the consumer protection front, we’ve 2003 to convince the Alcohol and Tobacco Special guests presented Trumpeter Each year, the Trumpeter been busy monitoring the ways con Tax and Trade Bureau to mandate an Together, we will welcome the advocacy Awards to NBC News Investigative Awards Dinner and Reception artists capitalize on the pandemic with Alcohol Facts label. We are hopeful challenges and opportunities that we and Consumer Correspondent Vicky serves as a celebration of the innovative scams and helping consumers that this new push will gain traction, anticipate lie ahead as we navigate the Nguyen and Federal Communications careers of deserving advocates in avoid falling victim. We are grateful for as consumers need better labeling now pandemic into 2021. We offer thanks and Commission Commissioner Jessica consumer and worker protection, our partnerships with Attorneys General more than ever. During the coronavirus best wishes to you and your loved ones for Rosenworcel. NCL also honored Attorney offers a look into the ongoing from across the country and for the pandemic, reports indicate that Americans a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season. General for the District of Columbia Karl work of the National Consumers technology that makes our virtual series are increasing their alcohol consumption, Racine with the Florence Kelley Consumer League, and raises general possible. (See cover story.) still without sufficient information about Leadership Award. operating funds to support the At our first ever virtual broadcast of the what is in their drinks. It’s time for change. “In the time of pandemic, these voices organization’s mission. (Learn more on page 5.) Trumpeter Awards this fall, we were are more essential than ever, and each is The replay of the broadcast is treated to video greetings by former A bright spot during this period: we doing their part to help consumers,” said available for viewing at nclnet. Clockwise from top right: FCC Commissioner Jessica honorees—including AFL-CIO President recently had the chance to reconnect NCL Executive Director Sally Greenberg. org. Rosenworcel, Vicky Nguyen, DC AG Karl Racine, and Richard Trumka and Washington Post “Commissioner Rosenworcel’s dedication CNN's Maria Cardona. Page 2 Page 3 NCL Bulletin Volume 82 Number 2

New NCL research examines reality of recycling food and Alcohol labeling: Why now? beverage packaging in Pandemic seeing increase in U.S. alcohol consumption; Advocates urging for overdue labels

Fifty years ago, 20 million Americans Think about this: Americans have on the labels of most alcohol beverage joined to celebrate the first Earth Day, access to labeling information about the products,” said NCL Executive Director recognizing en masse the direct link composition and nutrition of everything Sally Greenberg. “We are urging TTB between environmental degradation and we eat, drink, or swallow with one to get it right by issuing a consumer deteriorating public health. Much of the notable exception: alcoholic beverages. friendly final regulation that will provide focus at the time was on visible pollution, the same helpful and easily accessible Why? Because the federal agency including the exponential growth of labeling information on alcoholic that regulates beer, wine and distilled trash and litter in parks, beaches, and beverages that is now required for spirits—the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax neighborhoods. Plastic had exploded in conventional foods, dietary supplements, and Trade Bureau (TTB) within the popularity as a packaging material after and nonprescription drugs.” Treasury Department—does not require World War II, and communities were standardized nutrient content labeling on While Americans needed this grappling with the surge in waste. Out alcoholic beverages. information in 2003, the lack of alcohol of this moment, our modern recycling labeling is even more important today. system was born. NCL is taking on the waste problem in the United States—where consumers produce an Getting TTB to issue rules that mandate average of 4.51 lbs of trash a day—and Americans’ widespread confusion over recycling. this labeling has long been a priority for According to recent statistics, an In 1970, the Container Corporation of the National Consumers League and estimated 95,000 people—68,000 men America sponsored a national drawing and policymakers. A new NCL report, can, and should, employ packaging other consumer, public health, medical, and 27,000 women—die from alcohol- contest to design a packaging symbol for “Examining Sustainability, Consumer choices to promote sustainability. and nutrition organizations. related causes each year, making alcohol at-home orders began in some states, recyclable paper. The winner, a college Choice, and Confusion in Food and We hope our report will expose the the third-leading preventable case of Nielsen reported a 54 percent increase in student at the University of Southern Beverage Packaging,” explores America’s industry for misleading consumers, “Today, even the most basic information death in the United States. national sales of alcohol compared with named Gary Anderson, recycling enterprise, marketing and push those companies to do better, help about alcohol beverages is not provided one year before, including a 262 percent created the now ubiquitous “Mobius labeling practices, and packaging options raise awareness about sustainability, Over time, excessive alcohol use can lead jump in online sales. More recently, a Loop” triangle. This symbol is frequently that contribute to sustainability. and ensure that consumers have better to the development of chronic diseases Key information missing Rand Corporation study documented a displayed on paper, plastic, glass, and information and a greater selection of and other serious problems including from alcoholic beverages 14 percent increase in alcohol use among metal packaging alike. “Our research found that most sustainably-packaged food and drinks.” high blood pressure, heart disease, consumers are in the dark when it comes adult Americans between April and June In 2003, NCL petitioned TTB to require stroke, liver disease, digestive problems, Once a source of information, the symbol Solutions proposed by NCL include a 2020 compared to the previous year. to the reality of the state of recycling in an easy-to-read, standardized “Alcohol certain cancers, and mental health now unfortunately adds to consumer the United States. We have no idea what combined approach of improved labeling, Facts” label, similar to the popular problems. Considering these trends, NCL is confusion, which is compounded by is recyclable and what isn’t,” said Sally consumer education, public policies to “Nutrition Facts” labels on foods and sounding the alarm and calling on misleading marketing campaigns and Greenberg, executive director of NCL. promote bottle and metal can returns, Alcohol consumption nonalcoholic beverages, to contain: TTB to quickly mandate standardized a patchwork of recycling practices “More effective and transparent labeling and an overall reduction in waste. The is a significant source content labeling on all alcoholic that vary by municipality and other is necessary to advance sustainability white paper puts the impetus on both • the serving size; of calories that may beverages so adult Americans can factors. Advocates fear this contributes goals for the benefit of consumers and the brand manufacturers and retailers to offer • the amount of alcohol per serving; contribute to body make responsible drinking decisions to a decline in sustainability; when environment.” sustainably packaged products where • the number of calories per serving; weight gain and • the alcohol percentage by volume; during the coronavirus pandemic and consumers are unable to make informed possible, to improve consumer choice, the development of • the number of standard drinks per beyond. TTB’s action would also make decisions, or are misled in their efforts NCL’s research uncovered that common and to empower sustainable purchasing. obesity. It’s estimated container; it possible for consumers to follow the to be environmentally conscious, more symbols, especially the Mobius Loop Finally, the paper recommends that that excessive • the definition of a “standard drink” new advice contained in the soon to be waste ends up in the landfill, even as triangle, mislead consumers about the Congress pass legislation to establish alcohol use costs our (12 fl. oz. regular beer, 5 fl. oz. of released 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines consumers are trying to do their best for recyclability of products. Consumers standard labeling practices and minimum economy billions in losses in workplace are especially confused when it comes to wine, or 1.5 fl. oz. of 80- proof for Americans Recommendations, which the environment. required information. distilled spirits); productivity, healthcare expenses for plastic—which is not, in fact, endlessly states adults should consume no more • the latest Dietary Guidelines for treating problems caused by excessive Today, Americans produce an average recyclable and usually ends up in a “Implementing a comprehensive than one alcoholic drink per day. Americans advice on moderate drinking, law enforcement and other of 4.51 pounds of municipal solid waste landfill or the natural environment. packaging sustainability program is drinking (e.g., “Experts recommend criminal justice expenses, and losses “Those consumers who choose to drink every day, of which only about 35 percent not an insignificant undertaking,” said that adults consume no more than from motor vehicle crashes related to absolutely need alcohol and calorie is recycled or composted. To address “While some companies are leading Greenberg. “The magnitude of this the way on packaging sustainability, one drink per day”); and excessive alcohol use. information per serving now more this issue, this fall, NCL released new challenge demands thoughtful analysis • an ingredients declaration, listing switching to endlessly recyclable glass than ever,” said Greenberg. “Without research on the widespread confusion and informed policies and business each ingredient by its common or These facts are especially disturbing bottles or metal cans, others are making it, Americans continue to be left in the among consumers about food and models to advance progress. We hope our usual name and identifying any considering the impact of the COVID-19 dark.” beverage packaging recyclability and short-term cost calculations without report is the first step towards putting a major food allergens present in the pandemic on Americans’ alcohol intake. called for changes by brands, retailers, taking into account the long-term new recycling revolution in motion.” product. Going back to March 2020 when stay- damage,” said Greenberg. “Companies Page 4 Page 5 NCL Bulletin Volume 82 Number 2 LifeSmarts Alumni: Where are they now? Survey: A quarter century of giving teens tools to succeed generated stories of amazing impact MEET THE TEAM:

Their favorite LifeSmarts topic was health who attended Nationals in 2012 with his LifeSmarts Elena Robertson and safety, and personal finance has team from New Hampshire, said, “I think in your LifeSmarts Development Associate been the most useful since high school, the biggest take away from my LifeSmarts neighborhood according to responses by LifeSmarts experience was confidence. I ran across alumni in a survey NCL conducted over an online essay competition and knew Our volunteer State the summer. Many of our alums are still my chances of winning were slim, but my Coordinators are in touch with LifeSmarts teammates, and experience in LifeSmarts reminded me the backbone—and we heard from participants from as far that I am smart enough. A few months the heart!—of the New Mexico State back as class of ’02. later, I found out that I was one of the LifeSmarts program. Coordinator Gayle winners and was flown in to a Happiness We are fortunate For 27 years, LifeSmarts has provided Murdock was the Hackathon event in to to work with great real-world consumer and personal finance 2014 National develop an app!” people representing What is your background? education to youth across the country. a variety of LifeSmarts Coach of Our alums told us in their own words how Alumni checked in from colleges the Year. I began my fundraising career in organizations and college, calling alumni to update their LifeSmarts helped set them on the path to across the country, including: agencies. And this year we’re growing information and ask for donations. success. State University, Rochester Institute of in new states and working with new Through the weekly scripts we were Technology, Tulane University, Lehigh Many shared stories about avoiding coordinators across the country. Welcome! given, I started to learn more about University, University of Texas at Austin, financial pitfalls, recognizing frauds, non-profit fundraising and decided, Barnard College, Berry College, American State Coordinators oversee their state and taking better care of their health in my senior year, to pursue a career University, MIT, Vanderbilt Law School, programs, serving as the local contact thanks to the knowledge they gained in fundraising. In graduate school in the University of Minnesota, North for coaches, promoting the program to in the program. They have used their London, I worked as the Development Dakota State University, Pasadena City educators statewide, and planning and LifeSmarts knowledge to benefit their intern at a small theatre, and moved to College, and more. They reported working conducting the annual state LifeSmarts families and their peers. Kelsey Becker Four-time Nationals competitor Kelsey DC where I’ve worked in Development in health care, technology, finance, competition. said, “My classmates at MIT were selected Becker (second from right) poses with LifeSmarts welcomes new for the Shakespeare Theatre Company, accounting, engineering, nonprofits, and as the smartest students in the world, but fellow teammates from North Dakota. State Coordinators in 2020 NPR, and a military charity. education. Read on to learn about the I was shocked how little they knew when impact LifeSmarts had on the lives of Colorado Nebraska What brought you to NCL? it came to real world skills. A lot of my these young adults. Jordan Sveen Chelsey Greene I’ve spent so much of my 20’s trying peers would refer to me as a ‘real adult’ Scott Bearchell, AZ LifeSmarts Nationals 2011, 2012 Educator Nebraska to educate myself on personal finance, when I’d give advice on personal finance, Department of I remember in Orlando memorizing the Connecticut tech, and the environment—knowing consumer rights, or health and safety. In Leslie Ogu, Washington, DC Education drug fact label, the one that is required Brenda Shuler there is a program teaching these reality, I just had four years of LifeSmarts LifeSmarts Nationals 2012 to be on all Over-The-Counter drugs. I’m Educator New Mexico skills to students before they even knowledge banked up from high school.” I learned about good and bad debt, and pretty sure I have avoided several drug Gayle Murdock leave high school blew my mind. Florida how both can impact my future when it interactions because LifeSmarts trained Retired Educator I’m very jealous of these kids. When Getting on a plane for the very first Geralyn Sachs comes to purchasing a home, a car, and/ me to always look at the drug fact Episode 11: Advice to get rid I saw that LifeSmarts was hiring a time to attend a National LifeSmarts or being approved for a loan. As soon label, I’ve also stopped many friends UF/IFAS Florida Tennessee Championship opened up some students’ as I got to college, I opened a credit from unwanted drug interactions 4-H Jeremy “JC” of that debt monkey on your Development Associate, it felt like a eyes to the possibility of travel and built line to start building good credit and because of this. Cheney once-in-a-lifetime chance to work on Indiana back up their self-assurance. Robert Stacy II, it was one of the best decisions I ever Kroger a program that really mattered to me. Alyson L. made. It allowed me to purchase a car NCL’s Sally Greenberg and Lisa What is your favorite project to work McIntyre-Reiger West Virginia for my mom and get great rates for Hertzberg interview the financial at so far? applying for a home. Indiana Sonya Haught Zach Schierl, AZ literacy guru and award-winning Department of Educator Washington Post columnist, Michelle I have really enjoyed being part of both LifeSmarts Nationals 2005–08 Education Lisa Ingram Singletary. the Development and LifeSmarts teams The personal finance and consumer Maryland 4-H Extension for the different types of projects I get to rights topics have been so helpful. You Singletary tells funny and powerful ShuNa Xiao, CA work on. It was fun to watch the virtual just don’t learn about finances and Alva Amaker Agent in Marshall stories about her grandmother who LifeSmarts Nationals 2018 Trumpeter event come together, and it consumer protections anywhere else— Educator County and raised five grandchildren on a modest West Virginia was such a beautiful presentation. I have Lifesmarts taught me how to form at least I didn’t! I can’t begin to count Michigan salary. She also shares three money University enjoyed assisting the LifeSmarts team connections and to interact more the number of ways LifeSmarts has had Ora Times Smith rules, how to talk to children about with people that are geographically a positive impact on my life. Buying as they prepared for the new school High School Wisconsin family finances, and provides advice for located very far from me. It’s given me a car, renting a place to live, standing consumers who may be struggling with year by signing up and pretending to a different perspective. Although we up to bad businesses, knowing your Counselor Kay Johnson Retired Educator finances during the pandemic. be a student. Taking the LifeSmarts are in the same country, daily life from employee rights—there are so many Missouri quizzes gave me a new appreciation for Robert Stacy II (second from the left) state-to-state can be so different ways the education I gained from Find the episode on Apple Podcasts, Linda Cumpton everything these kids are learning. standing with his team at the National from what I’m used to. LifeSmarts has served me. Retired Educator Google Podcasts, and Stitcher. LifeSmarts Championship in 2012 Page 6 Page 7 NCL Bulletin Volume 82 Number 2

New report reveals deep dependence on child labor in NCL working to keep laundry care MEET THE TEAM: Adrienne Archer cocoa industry information required on labels Executive Assistant

A new report out this fall revealed that Laundry day is a regular chore for most the chocolate industry in West Africa Americans; the average American is entrenched in child labor. Despite household washes 7.4 loads, or about nearly two decades of interventions and 50 pounds of laundry per week. That promises to end the worst forms of child is a lot of washing! Knowing how to labor, the problem actually worsened. The properly care for all those clothes is a key prevalence of child labor in agricultural question. Should a cashmere sweater go households in cocoa-producing areas on the delicate cycle? Can it be washed in in Ivory Coast and Ghana—the world’s a machine at home, or must it be sent to What is your background? primary sources of cocoa—increased the dry cleaners? Answering these fabric Before I came to NCL, I worked for from 31 percent to 45 percent in the last care questions incorrectly could cost a The Commission argues that because decade. the Transportation Research Board, a consumer hundreds of dollars in ruined consumers have grown used to the labels, division of the National Academies of The report confirmed what advocates clothing. The average American family the industry will simply include them Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, at NCL’s Child Labor Coalition (CLC), spends more than $1,800 annually in voluntarily. for 23 years and served in various which consists of 38 groups, have been apparel and services. NCL opposes the proposed repeal of administrative roles where I was asked saying for years. According to the new Fortunately, because of consumer the Care Labeling Rule and is making to either train, mentor incoming $3.5 million study, funded by U.S. its voice heard at the FTC. To the support staff, or ensure that the office Department of Labor (DOL), this work is advocates’ work in the 1960s, tags sewn extent market incentives in the apparel ran smoothly. I have always enjoyed hazardous. Children toiling in cocoa are into most clothing must provide fabric care guidance. This was not always the industry exist, they tend to reward those working in support positions because using sharp tools like machetes, clearing they have given me practice in analyzing case. Before 1971, clothing manufacturers manufacturers who can achieve the land, carrying heavy loads, working problems and quickly finding solutions. long hours, conducting night work, and were not required to inform consumers lowest production cost, not those who increasingly using pesticides and other how to care for their garment, something provide the best care information to I am a native Washingtonian and have agrochemicals—all major concerns. A young boy uses a machete to cut down cocoa pods at a farm Ivory Coast. According to a we all now take for granted. Fortunately, buyers. From 1987-2017, the percentage earned bachelor’s degrees from George new report funded by the Department of Labor, decades of efforts to reverse the problem in 1971 the Federal Trade Commission of Americans’ discretionary spending Washington University and George “It’s unacceptable that there is basically of child labor in cocoa production have failed. Photo by Daniel Rosenthal (FTC) created the Care Labeling Rule, allocated to clothing has declined from Mason University. I try to serve my no substantive progress in reducing child which requires manufacturers and 5 percent to 2 percent. Compare this to community through volunteering for labor after two decades of pledges to end “The report shows conclusively that and millions of dollars spent,” said CLC importers to attach care instructions to rising spending levels for entertainment, activities though my memberships in the problem,” said CLC co-chair Sally ‘voluntary’ initiatives like the Harkin- International Issues Committee Chair garments. These instructions are based dining out, alcohol, and furniture. Gamma Phi Beta Sorority and Sigma Greenberg. “Companies need to commit Engle Protocol have not worked,” said Judy Gearhart. on rigorous testing that manufacturers Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. more resources and be held accountable Terry Collingsworth of IRAdvocates, a “Repealing the Care Labeling Rule, Recommendations must conduct to ensure the optimal way What do you love about your job? because they are the entities profiting CLC member and nonprofit litigation which has benefited consumers for to care for fabrics or garments. Working at NCL has allowed me to from it.” firm that is suing chocolate companies The CLC works to get cocoa farmers decades, would shift the burden of write blogs on safe hand sanitizers alleging the use of forced child labor. and workers a living wage; the CLC Care labels also play an important figuring out how to properly care for Child labor in cocoa became well known and mental health issues and help “These serious human rights violations also supports federal “due diligence” role in the garment buying process for garments onto consumers’ backs,” to the public in 2001 following news NCL’s departments with their special require mandatory rules with serious legislation to require companies to many consumers. Whether a particular said NCL ED Sally Greenberg. “At a reports of child slavery in West Africa. projects. It has also taught me the penalties, not empty promises from cocoa remove child labor from their supply garment is designated as “dry clean only” time when millions of Americans are With consumers outraged, Congress importance of ensuring that everyone companies profiting from the exploitation chains. The CLC demands that the DOL is often a deciding factor in whether a struggling with how to make ends meet, attempted to mandate a child-labor-free has access to accurate and current product-labeling requirement, but the of children.” use methodologies to evaluate whether consumer will purchase it. there is no justification for focusing on progress is occurring—and is seeking this essential consumer garment care information that can help them chocolate industry fought it. A multi- The research’s findings were not entirely The Care Labeling Rule has offered greater participation in the development tool, which we all have come to rely on. manage their lives. stakeholder initiative called the Harkin- negative: school enrollment continued to clear benefits to consumers for 40 years. and release of future cocoa surveys. That is why we organized a group of 12 What do you see for the future? Engel Protocol combined the efforts of climb, and researchers found that child Inexplicably, however, the FTC is now the chocolate companies, West African consumer advocacy organizations to file Since NCL’s founding in 1899, it has labor interventions showed evidence of “Our inability to compare studies considering scrapping the Rule. As part governments, laborers, and nonprofits to comments this fall opposing the repeal of stood for promoting a fair marketplace reducing child labor, especially when due to varying methodologies is very of the Trump Administration’s larger combat the “worst forms of child labor” the Rule.” for workers and consumers. I see NCL there were multiple interventions or unfortunate,” said CLC Coordinator push to repeal regulations government- in the cocoa sector. But in the years continuing to work toward this goal by school-based initiatives. Reid Maki. “The study also did not wide, the FTC has announced proposed What do you think? Have garment care since, chocolate companies have missed seeking more input from labor unions attempt to assess farmer income—of vital labels helped you protect your clothing deadlines set to eliminate child labor in “There is no turning away from the rules that would get rid of this important on polices that NCL can support. importance in addressing child labor.” investment? We want to hear from you! 2005, 2008, and 2010. Yet another goal— devastating news that hazardous child consumer protection, leaving it up to Email [email protected] to share your to reduce the “worst forms of child labor” labor has actually increased in cocoa over To learn more about the CLC, its members, manufacturers to decide whether to by 70 percent by 2020—was also missed. the last decade, despite years of effort and activities, visit StopChildLabor.org. include the labels on garments at all. thoughts. Page 8 Page 9 NCL Bulletin Volume 82 Number 2

MEET THE TEAM: NCL health advocacy rising to NCL celebrating first year of CBD education, reform with Jeanette ‘Jet’ Contreras Director of Health Policy challenges presented by pandemic Consumers for Safe CBD project

The coronavirus pandemic has brought a addressed consumer fears about expedited Via its Consumers for Safe CBD project, variety of issues covered by NCL’s health approval measures, ensuring that the NCL has been raising concerns about policy advocacy and education to the fore FDA will only approve a vaccine using a untested, unregulated products CBD and kept staff quite busy in recent months. measured, evidence-based approach. products and their potential dangers for unsuspecting consumers since it launched Vaccine confidence Twice in recent months, NCL staff the effort in late 2019. NCL staff have welcomed the opportunity to testify In September, the Food and Drug remained on the lookout for dangerous before the Centers for Disease Control and Administration hosted a one-on-one claims by manufacturers and retailers Prevention (CDC) Advisory Committee What is your background? interview between NCL Executive falsely promoting medical benefits of CBD of Immunization Practices (ACIP) in Growing up in a bilingual household Director Sally Greenberg and Dr. Stephen products—especially claims related to the support of enhanced infrastructure and within a diverse community has Hahn, FDA Commissioner, to discuss novel coronavirus. A Portland, Oregon for vaccine confidence, effective public certainly colored my world view. A mounting consumer concerns about the store was ordered by the state’s attorney health messaging, and strong vaccine career-high was leading Spanish- anticipated release of a COVID-19 vaccine general to take down signs claiming that recommendations. NCL’s Associate language outreach and education to in the coming months. In his remarks, its products could boost immunity against Director of Health Policy Nissa Shaffi implement the Affordable Care Act Commissioner Hahn emphasized FDA’s COVID-19. testified on behalf of NCL, noting NCL’s while at the Centers for Medicare commitment to patient safety and the longstanding support for vaccines and “The reality of CBD’s effects on COVID and Medicaid Services. Throughout integrity of the FDA approval process, A digital ad for Consumers for Safe CBD, which launched in November 2019 to educate the efforts to promote consumer awareness patients could actually be the opposite public about the retail CBD industry and call for better regulations. my career in public health, I have including Emergency Use Authorizations regarding vaccine safety. of helpful,” said NCL Director of Health been fortunate to work with diverse (EUA). Commissioner Hahn also Policy Jeanette Contreras (read a new THC, though the labels may not always advocates continue to sound the drum for stakeholders to contribute to improving Q&A with Jeanette at left). “Recent studies disclose it. the need for reform in regulation of the population health in underserved have actually found potential harmful entire retail CBD industry and increased communities all across the country. Pandemic’s impact on health risks: Opioids In advance of Halloween celebrations, side effects of cannabis products on consumer education. The American NCL issued a special warning parents What brought you to NCL? coronavirus patients.” Medical Association recently published a and counterfeit drugs about the dangers of children ingesting As a daughter of a union steelworker, summary analysis of research conducted According to reports from the American disorders as unemployment rates rise, Aurelius Data cautions the public against CBD products. I know first-hand how our family at the University of California San Diego Medical Association, more than 40 states the feeling of isolation heightens, and the potential harmful side effects that can benefited from the union, which “With families across America trying to highlighting the need for evidence and have reported increases in opioid-related prevention and treatment resources are come from consuming cannabis products included access to the best health figure out how to preserve kid-favorite education around the use of CBD. mortality. Numerous pandemic-related more difficult to access—particularly with Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) if a insurance, job stability, and the safety traditions during the pandemic, this year’s factors are contributing to a destabilizing in underserved communities,” said patient is infected with COVID-19. And Researchers reviewed a random sampling measures that protected my dad. I Halloween presented special challenges,” effect on addicts and those trying to Jason Sundby, Chairman and CEO of studies have shown that many unregulated of 400 Reddit posts labeled “testimonials feel privileged to be able to advocate said Contreras. “Due to the aggressive maintain their sobriety: unemployment Verde Environmental Technologies, Inc. CBD products have been found to contain on CBD.” More than 90 percent reported through NCL’s trusted voice and to growth of the CBD marketplace, we wanted levels and job loss, economic stress, “Unfortunately, we’re seeing a direct the use of CBD for medical conditions be a part of its history in protecting to warn families about the possibility of fears of the virus, availability of medical link between the rise of unemployment including mental and emotional problems, consumer and worker rights. CBD-infused candies showing up in kids’ joint pain, sleep issues, neurological services, and isolation due to community and other COVID-19 stressors with the trick-or-treat bags.” What’s been the most exciting part shutdowns. experts are seeing increasingly number of opioid overdoses in America.” conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and of your tenure so far? concerning trends with substance abuse, Others raised the concern as well. other illnesses. Our work on COVID-19 response is including alcohol use (see page 5) and NCL also recently moderated a pair County police departments in Kentucky The use of CBD to address any of these both exciting and fulfilling. Seeing opioids. of events spotlighting the dangers of encouraged parents to check all Halloween issues has not been approved by the FDA. that this pandemic disproportionately counterfeit drugs in the era of COVID-19. candy after local kids received gummies impacts low-income and minority In October, NCL co-hosted a Facebook Panel discussions focused on the safety of that contained CBD while trick-or- “In the present landscape in which communities, we are bringing a clear Live event with Verde Technologies, the the U.S. drug supply chain and the dangers treating last year. A radio station in Florida consumers are bombarded with health focus on health disparities and how creator of the Deterra drug deactivation to patients posed by counterfeit and reported on police and doctor warnings claims related to CBD products, clear the social determinants of health are and disposal system, and a panel of experts substandard medications, and highlighted about CBD treats that look benign. “The communication about possible risks is relevant in all aspects of health policy. to discuss the COVID-19 pandemic’s the newly relaunched Fraud.org, the scary part of these CBD candies is that essential,” the researchers explain. They My hope is that through this work, impact on the opioid crisis. The panel home of NCL’s FakeRx anti-counterfeit even police have a hard time telling the conclude that the FDA has “an important NCL continues to advocate for public featured experts from the frontlines of consumer-focused Action Center. difference between regular and CBD role to play in combatting unsupported the opioid epidemic, including a Cherokee health policies that improve health Watch the replay of these and other virtual infused ones,” reported the Fort Myers claims of medical benefit.” outcomes in underserved communities Nation Prevention Specialist. station. health discussions hosted by NCL at To learn more about NCL’s efforts, visit for generations to come. “COVID-19 has made things worse for nclnet.org. Aside from the issue of keeping the 4SafeCBD.org. those struggling with substance use products out of children’s hands, Page 10 Page 11 1701 K Street NW, Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20006 Telephone: (202) 835-3323

Please visit us online at nclnet.org. NCL Board Officers Let’s advocate for a better, Vice Chair - Cleo Manuel Stamatos Vice Chair - Greg Jefferson, Sr. Secretary - Norma Flores López brighter, more equitable 2021 Treasurer - Joan Bray Counsel - Jack Blum Throughout 2020, workers and consumers have faced unprecedented NCL Staff challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and its social Adrienne Archer, John Breyault, Jeanette Contreras, Sally Greenberg, Molly Harman, Lisa Hertzberg, and economic fallout. In this chaotic and difficult time, the National Nailah John, Arlene Johnson, Elena Robertson, Consumers League remains committed to educating the public about Reid Maki, Carol McKay, James Perry, Nissa Shaffi, scams and fraud, and protecting consumers’ health and safety. Karen Silberstein, Andrea Smith, Taun Sterling, Cheryl Varnadoe As we move forward to meet this moment, our nation is seeing NCL Bulletin is published by the National increased rates of consumer fraud, a proliferation of misleading Consumers League. (ISSN 1055-923X) information regarding vaccines, workers without adequate wages and Mail comments to: NCL, 1701 K Street, NW, Ste. 1200 benefits, and industries that confuse consumers about recycling their Washington, DC 20006 products. Or call (202) 835-3323 We continue to track and expose the latest scams and to provide or email [email protected]. trusted, accurate, and current financial and product safety information Copyright 2020 by National Consumers League. NCL should be credited for all material. All to keep you safe. The National Consumers League is there for you, and rights reserved. we need your help to make our efforts go even further! The National Consumers League is a private, nonprofit organization. NCL’s mission is to We rely on consumers to help us keep our laptops humming. Please protect and promote social and economic justice consider a gift to help NCL sustain our 120+ years of protecting and for consumers and workers in the United States promoting economic justice for consumers and workers. and abroad.