Md. mulls voluntary standards for crib bumper pads

BALTIMORE -  The state of Maryland plans to hold hearings on adopting voluntary safety standards on crib bumper pads.
 
   Officials had been discussing a ban on bumper pads that line the inside of cribs, but The Baltimore Sun reports that the state is instead considering voluntary safety standards adopted by manufacturers.
 
   The state Department of Health and Mental Hygiene is accepting public comments through Sept. 28. It had already started the regulatory process on a bumper ban that would take effect next year on retailers, including Internet sellers. The state may still choose to adopt the standards.
 
   Studies have shown that crib bumper pads shown can suffocate or strangle babies, though manufacturers say they are safe if used correctly.