By Joe Yeoman
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This Note argues that a 3-D printed object and its design file should be considered products, and thus potential defendants be held strictly liable for any defects. Based on the growing popularity of home-based 3-D printing, the potential harms that will arise from defective objects requires that action be taken now to define these objects and their design files as products. Currently, the American Law Institute (ALI) and their persuasive Restatements do not completely cover home-based 3-D printing. This Note examines what the ALI can do when releasing a new version of their Restatement of Torts. Additionally, this Note proposes a solution that will balance the need to help injured parties, while protecting innocent hobbyists.