FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 2, 2001
Release # 02-035
CPSC Consumer Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: Ken Giles, (301) 504-7052
Thomas Moore Becomes Acting Chairman of U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Thomas Hill Moore today became Acting Chairman of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Mr. Moore, who has served as a commissioner at CPSC since 1995, said, "I came to CPSC, in part, because of my admiration for the hard work and zeal of its Chairman, Ann Brown (who resigned November 1). The agency is a better place for having had her extraordinarily talented stewardship. I will miss her and wish her well in her new endeavors."
Acting Chairman Moore also said, "I was drawn to CPSC primarily, of course, by the agency's mission to safeguard the American public from hazardous consumer products. During these past six years I have been honored to work with Commissioner Mary Gall and look forward to continuing the good work of the agency with her help." He also stated, "It has been my privilege to work with an extremely dedicated CPSC staff."
Moore announced that three career employees, who among them have a combined total of more than 85 years of government service (mostly at CPSC) will assume acting roles in three key offices. Tom Murr will assume the duties of Acting Executive Director, Alan Shakin will assume the duties of Acting General Counsel, and Ken Giles will become Acting Director of the Office of Information and Public Affairs. "During this transition period, our career employees need to have a sense of balance restored in what must be unsettled times for them. These appointees are old hands at running the agency and are respected by their peers," Moore said. "I am extremely grateful for their willingness to take on these additional responsibilities." In addition, Michael Gougisha of Acting Chairman Moore's personal staff will assume the role of Acting Director of Congressional Relations.
"CPSC will have knowledgeable and trusted people at the helm in these important offices," Acting Chairman Moore said. "The American public can be assured that CPSC will continue its safety mission without a pause. Commissioner Gall and I will carry on our mission to eliminate hazardous products from the marketplace and to inform and educate consumers about product safety while we await the confirmation of a new Chairman."