[r45] Bill to Establish Electronics Collection and Recycling Programs Heads to Governor's Desk (4/24/2009)

Currently, only a small percentage of electronic waste in Indiana is safely recycled. 

According to the Indiana Recycling Coalition:

• Hoosiers annually discard 1.2 million computers and TVs.
• At least four pounds of lead are contained in each old computer monitor or television.
• There are at least five toxic materials found in today's electronic devices.
• There are at least eight serious health effects of these toxins.

HB 1589 will improve Indiana's electronics recycling infrastructure.

"This bill creates a great program for our state and will help folks get rid of those bulky, old devices," Rep. Borders said.  "Even more, the bill will create new green jobs with these recycling programs."

Under the bill, manufacturers of video display devices would recycle covered electronic devices from households, public schools and small businesses.  It's a bill designed to help recycle at least 60 percent of the total weight of video display devices they sell in one year. 

If the governor approves HB 1589, the new legislation would become effective July 1. 

To keep track of the bills that make their way to the governor's desk, visit www.in.gov/gov/billwatch.htm.