Full Breakdown
U.S. Government Files Lawsuit Against Stanley Black & Decker for Safety Violations
12/23/2025, 5:56:09 AM
Allegations of Delayed Reporting of Hazardous Defects
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), in conjunction with the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), has initiated a civil enforcement action against Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. (Black & Decker) for alleged violations of the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA). The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, accuses the company of failing to promptly report safety risks associated with its utility bars and miter saws.
The complaint asserts that Black & Decker began manufacturing utility bars in December 2015 and subsequently received numerous reports from consumers and retailers about the tools unexpectedly breaking during use, leading to injuries. Despite this knowledge, the company did not report these incidents to the CPSC until May 2019. Similarly, between 2019 and 2022, Black & Decker received hundreds of reports regarding defects in its miter saws, specifically concerning the breaking of rear protective guards and plastic deflectors, which resulted in injuries such as lacerations. The company failed to notify the CPSC of these issues until June 2022.
Legal Implications and Government Response
The DOJ's complaint seeks monetary civil penalties and injunctive relief to prevent future violations of the CPSA. The CPSA mandates that manufacturers must immediately report any information that suggests a product may pose a substantial hazard or an unreasonable risk of serious injury or death. This is not the first time Black & Decker has faced scrutiny; the company previously resolved allegations of delayed reporting through a stipulated order in 2015.
Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate emphasized the importance of compliance with safety laws, stating, “Companies must report safety issues in consumer products immediately, as the law requires, to prevent unnecessary injury or death.” U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes reiterated this sentiment, highlighting the commitment to holding companies accountable for failing to protect consumers.
Criticism and Opposition
The allegations against Black & Decker have raised concerns about consumer safety and corporate responsibility. Critics argue that the company's delayed reporting not only jeopardized consumer safety but also undermined regulatory efforts to address hazardous products in a timely manner. The CPSC's Acting Chairman, Peter A. Feldman, affirmed the agency's resolve to utilize its full authority against repeat offenders, indicating a broader commitment to consumer protection.
What's Next
The case is currently pending in federal court, where the DOJ must prove its allegations by a preponderance of the evidence if the matter proceeds to trial. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for Black & Decker and the enforcement of consumer safety regulations in the industry.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Companies must not put consumers in harm’s way by failing to immediately report a defective product to the proper authorities,” — U.S. Attorney Kelly O. Hayes, District of Maryland
- “This coordinated federal action will protect consumers,” — Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman, CPSC
- “The Justice Department, together with CPSC, is committed to enforcing consumer protection statutes protecting Americans from hazardous products,” — Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate, DOJ
