According to Businessweek, Maryland’s health department has proposed the first statewide ban on the sale of crib bumper pads. The ban would begin on June 21st, 2013. 
“The safety and health of infants in Maryland is our first priority,” said Dr. Joshua M. Sharfstein, secretary of the Maryland Department of Health and Human Hygiene. “After an extensive year-long review of the evidence and thoughtful consideration of public comment, we agree with our expert health advisors that baby bumper pads pose unreasonable risks to infants.”
Dr. Scott Krugman, incoming chapter president and chair of the Department of Pediatrics at MedStar Franklin Square Medical Center, said the Maryland Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics supports the proposal to stop the sale of crib bumpers, as they can suffocate or strangle babies.
Even though the health department does not recommend them, the ban would not include vertical bumpers that wrap tightly around crib rails, or mesh crib liners.
The department’s proposal includes an agreement that would allow bumper pads to be sold, if the Consumer Product Safety Commission finds that the benefits of certain pads exceed the risks, Businessweek reports.
The ban proposal is with efforts to encourage parents to exercise safe sleep practices for their infants, including the routine of sleeping on their backs.