Oregon Senate Passes Bill to Clean Up Electronic Waste

Legislation will mean protection of the environment through new recycling centers for old computers and electronic devices.

Photo courtesy: destructoid.com

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Oregon Senate today passed House Bill 2626, legislation that will provide for the proper disposal of old computers, televisions and other electronic devices that could have detrimental environmental impacts if not handled correctly.

Backers say that because of the legislation, fewer electronic items will end up in Oregon landfills.

“With more and more electronics becoming obsolete, we need to make sure we handle this waste in an environmentally responsible way,” said Senator Richard Devlin (D-Tualatin). “This bill will make sure we dispose of electronics properly and keep toxic materials out of our water supply.”

Oregonians throw away thousands of computers and pieces of electronic equipment every year, most of which ends up in landfills. House Bill 2626 would require computer and television manufacturers to contract for a recycling program or set up one of their own. Access to recycling programs would be free to consumers.

“This legislation will make it easy on the consumer to dispose of their electronic devices,” said Senator Brad Avakian (D-Portland/Beaverton). “It will also continue the long tradition of environmental protection and recycling in Oregon.”

“It is exciting that after several years of effort, the Oregon Legislative Assembly today delivered on its commitment to cleaning up e-waste and keeping Oregon on the forefront of environmental responsibility,” said Senator Vicki Walker (D-Eugene).

“Representative Jackie Dingfelder’s leadership to craft recycling solutions for electronic waste has been exceptional, bringing together all parties to gain a 100 percent bipartisan solution. Great work!” added Senator Frank Morse (R-Albany/Corvallis)

House Bill 2626 will now move to the Governor’s desk for his signature.