DOJ and CPSC File Lawsuit Against Stanley Black & Decker for Safety Violations

On December 22, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) initiated legal proceedings against Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. (Black & Decker). The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, accuses the company of failing to promptly report potential defects in its DeWalt utility bars and miter saws that could pose significant safety risks, including serious injury or death. This alleged oversight violates Section 15(b) of the Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA), which mandates that manufacturers disclose such safety concerns immediately to the CPSC.

The lawsuit reflects ongoing efforts to ensure consumer safety and accountability among manufacturers. The CPSC’s role is to safeguard consumers by enforcing regulations that require manufacturers to disclose product hazards, and the DOJ supports these efforts through legal action when necessary. The current case against Black & Decker seeks not only civil penalties but also injunctive relief to prevent future violations.

Changes in DOJ Structure Impacting Consumer Safety Enforcement

This enforcement action occurs against the backdrop of significant structural changes within the DOJ. As of September 30, 2025, the Consumer Protection Branch (CPB) was dissolved, and its personnel were reassigned to other divisions. The DOJ subsequently established the Enforcement & Affirmative Litigation Branch (EALB), consolidating its efforts to address issues related to health, safety, and economic security under two main sections. The Enforcement Section has taken over many responsibilities previously held by the CPB, focusing on consumer protection statutes and litigation.

The DOJ’s recent lawsuit against Black & Decker signals a commitment from the EALB to maintain proactive enforcement of the CPSA, continuing the path set by the CPB. Historically, the DOJ has worked closely with the CPSC to pursue violators, leveraging its authority to enforce compliance in federal court. While the CPSC can impose penalties and conduct investigations, it often relies on the DOJ to take legal action against non-compliant entities.

Future Implications for Companies Regulated by the CPSC

Despite the reorganization, the fundamental requirements under the CPSA remain unchanged. The CPSC retains its power to recall products, investigate safety concerns, and impose civil penalties. The DOJ continues to have the authority to initiate federal court actions on behalf of the United States, seeking injunctions and penalties when violations occur.

Going forward, any federal lawsuit related to CPSA enforcement will now be handled by the EALB’s Enforcement Section. Companies should be vigilant as this shift may influence how enforcement actions are pursued. Questions remain regarding the EALB’s approach to voluntary self-disclosure policies, previously established by the CPB, which encouraged companies to report potential violations to benefit from cooperation credit.

While the EALB is likely to adopt many of the CPB’s consumer safety enforcement practices, the broader mandate may introduce new priorities. Reports indicate that the EALB will address not only consumer safety but also issues tied to health and data privacy, potentially expanding the scope of its enforcement activities. This broader focus could lead to increased scrutiny of companies, particularly those involved in the importation of consumer goods.

In light of these developments, companies should take proactive steps to ensure compliance with CPSA regulations. They are advised to revisit safety and compliance programs, treat CPSA standards as a high priority, and update internal manuals accordingly. Additionally, companies should maintain open communication with the CPSC and prioritize voluntary recalls when necessary.

To navigate the evolving enforcement landscape, engaging experienced legal counsel is essential. Legal experts familiar with CPSC regulations and DOJ procedures can help companies respond effectively to enforcement actions and manage compliance risks. With the establishment of the EALB and ongoing efforts to protect consumer safety, companies can expect heightened vigilance and enforcement from both the DOJ and CPSC moving forward.