Dec 18 - E-Waste Bill Introduced in Michigan
The Michigan Senate approved legislation that will establish a manufacturer-driven program to increase the recycling of consumer computer electronics without a charge on consumers. Both measures were sent to the governor to be signed into law.
Senate Bill 897, sponsored by Senator Valde Garcia, and SB 898, sponsored by Senator Patty Birkholz, will require manufacturers of consumer computer electronics to implement a take-back program for the free return of computers and video display devices that they produce. To participate, a manufacturer must first register with the state.
Part of the Senate Republican "Green Michigan Initiative," the legislation will:
- Outline registration guidelines for manufacturers who opt to be in the program;
- Establish requirements for the electronics take-back program;
- Develop an Electronic Waste Advisory Council; and
- Create the Electronics Waste Recycling Fund.
According to Garcia,
"This is an initiative that has been more than four years in the making. By approving this legislation, Michigan will join with several other states who have already implemented e-waste programs. The programs provide simple solutions for both consumers and manufacturers to recycle old, unwanted electronics while helping to improve our environment."
The legislation has support from electronics manufacturers, Hewlett-Packard, Dell and Apple; Waste Management Inc; and Goodwill Industries.
CAW and E-waste Recycling: