The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Restores Quorum with New Appointments

CPSC Welcomes New Commissioners to Strengthen Consumer Protection

In a significant move to enhance consumer safety, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has officially welcomed two new commissioners, Karen Sessions and Brien Lorenze. This development not only restores the commission's quorum but also paves the way for intensified enforcement and modernization efforts aimed at protecting American families from hazardous consumer products.

Commissioner Karen Sessions took her oath on August 19, 2026, while Brien Lorenze was sworn in just a few weeks later on September 8, 2026. Acting Chairman Peter A. Feldman expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I am proud to welcome Karen Sessions and Brien Lorenze to CPSC". Under their leadership, the CPSC aims to build upon its recent successes in consumer protection outreach and enforcement, continuing a legacy that aims to protect the nation from unreasonable risks associated with thousands of consumer products.

The CPSC, a federal agency established over 50 years ago, has been a crucial player in ensuring product safety across various categories. Every year, incidents related to consumer products lead to over $1 trillion in costs to the U.S. economy due to injuries, deaths, and damage to property. The renewed commission is well-positioned to address these significant challenges, particularly as it looks to expand its operational capacity through technological modernization and enhanced strategies.

The appointments come in a backdrop of ongoing efforts to deliver unprecedented enforcement results. The commission had successfully accelerated technological improvements that allow it to efficiently manage recalls and monitor compliance from manufacturers and sellers. The mission to ensure that consumers are protected from dangerous products is paramount, and CPSC aims to continue making strides in this area.

In his remarks, Feldman also acknowledged former President Trump's role in strengthening the Commission by selecting Sessions and Lorenze. Acknowledging the urgent need for ongoing vigilance in consumer protection, he expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the new commissioners to deliver more effective results for the American public.

One of the CPSC's major responsibilities is to enforce strict penalties and product safety standards. The law mandates that any individual or entity that attempts to sell products under a recall—either voluntary or mandated by the Commission—faces legal repercussions.

As this new chapter unfolds for the CPSC, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining strict safety protocols within the consumer products industry. The agency remains dedicated to its mission of protecting the public from any unreasonable risks associated with consumer products, which continues to evolve with the introduction of new technologies and products.

To stay updated, consumers are encouraged to visit CPSC.gov, where they can find valuable information, including product recalls, safety warnings, and how to report dangerous products. The CPSC regularly provides e-mail alerts and maintains active social media channels on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

For any incidents involving potentially hazardous products, individuals are urged to report their concerns through SaferProducts.gov or contact CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772 for immediate assistance. The CPSC’s goal is to foster a safer marketplace, ensuring that consumers have access to safe products.

As Karen Sessions and Brien Lorenze step into their roles amid heightened consumer awareness and engagement, their contributions are expected to usher in a new era of proactive consumer safety initiatives, empowering both the commission and the public in the ongoing fight against unsafe products.