To tackle the growing problem, Rep. Zack Hudgins led an effort last year to establish an e-waste program that provides manufacturer-funded free recycling of computers, monitors, laptops, and televisions for households, charities, small businesses, school districts, and small governments. Since the program began, Washington consumers have recycled over 9 million pounds of electronics.
A detail left unclear in the law, however, left electronics-collecting businesses uncertain about what to do with fully functioning computers. After meeting with and receiving feedback on the program, Hudgins revisited the issue this year, introducing House Bill 1522 that allows electronics-collecting businesses to sell or donate fully functioning computers before relying on recycling.
So while supporters hovered close by to take in the ceremonial moment, Governor Chris Gregoire signed into state law Wednesday Zack's bill supporting greater re-use and recycling of electronics and component equipment.
“This is smart public policy, and a win-win for our state," said Zack. "Not only are we keeping harmful toxins out of landfills, we’re helping support a small but growing green business that’s creating more and more jobs.”
For more information on the How's, What's and Where's of E-cycling in Washington, visit the state Department of Ecology’s website here.
