New York Attorney General Barbara Underwood has sued Target Corp., Walmart Inc. and LaRose Industries LLC over the import, distribution and sale of lead-contaminated toys.

In a Dec. 13 filing, Underwood said LaRose and Target imported and distributed thousands of the children's Cra-Z-Jewelz jewelry-making kits, while Walmart and Target sold them.

The companies also marketed the toys as suitable for children, when in fact they presented a significant lead exposure risk to children. The complaint stated that lead impairs neurological development and physical growth in children.

Underwood said the companies also failed to take appropriate measures to ensure that they will not import, distribute or sell such toys again. The attorney general also accused the companies of violating multiple state laws.

"No parent should have to worry that their child's toy may be toxic," Underwood posted on Twitter. The attorney general said her office had conducted tests that found that the toys had lead levels up to 10 times higher than the federal limit.

Underwood also noted that the findings of her investigation have already led to a nationwide recall of the jewelry-making kits.

The lawsuit is seeking injunctive relief and penalties against the companies.

"We're asking the court to assess civil penalties, and seeking a court order to ensure that dangerous toys stay off store shelves for good," Underwood tweeted.