AC power cords  

I haven't heard of any legislation requiring it, but there might be some... otherwise, they're just trying to cover their rear ends. According to Consumer Reports, "Lead is often added to polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic--which coats electrical cords, wire, and cable--to make it more durable and heat-resistant. Research has found that some lead may come to the surface and stick to skin as the cord is handled."

Adding lead to the plastic coating is nothing new, although the awareness of it is. As our environmental cops look more and more closely at the things we use on a daily basis, they're finding more and dangers.

I think they have said this for a long time. If you ever read the warning on the Chrismas tree lights at Christmas they twll you to wash your hands after handing as there is something on it that can casue cancer. I don't think very many people wash their hands after handing them though.