A bill authored by Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL-Park Rapids) designed to manage the state's growing e-waste problem passed out of conference committee this week.
"I couldn't be more pleased that my legislative colleagues recognize a good idea when they see it," said Sailer. "Technology is constantly improving and changing, meaning that more of these products will be replaced for newer models. This bill makes sure manufacturers will share in the responsibility that up until now has fallen primarily on counties and property tax payers."
E-waste is the informal name for electronic products nearing the end of their "useful life." Computers, televisions, VCRs, stereos, copiers and fax machines are common electronic products among those that can be reused, refurbished or recycled, along with a broader range of products like computer CPUs, printers and keyboards and DVD players.
Local officials have expressed concern about an onslaught of old televisions that will require proper disposal when federal law requires television broadcasters to convert to a digital format in February 2009.
"Minnesota residents have been unsure of how to dispose of these items, unwilling to pay the hefty disposal fees required or haven't known where to take them," said freshman Rep. Paul Gardner of Shoreview, a former director of the Recycling Association of Minnesota.
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"As a result, the products end up illegally dumped in the ditch, out in wooded areas or taking up space in closets and garages," Gardner said. "This bill gives some much needed help to counties to mitigate the cleanup costs of illegal dumping."
The legislation would require consumer electronics manufacturers to collect and recycle an amount of devices proportional to the weight of new devices sold during the previous year. The requirements on manufacturers call for collection of an amount of devices in the first year of the program equal to 60 percent of the weight of products sold during the previous year, and 80 percent in the years thereafter. Devices collected outside the Twin Cities metro area would count for 1.5 times their actual weight.
In addition, manufacturers would have to pay a base fee of $5,000 in the first year and $2,500 in years after that for administrative and operating costs, plus a variable fee ranging from 30 cents to 50 cents per pound of product for each pound they fall short of their target.
"Counties across Minnesota have seen substantial increases in illegal dumping as a result of the first phase of the legislation passed last year. They've had to patch together programs and pick up the increased costs - often at the expense of increasing property taxes to pay for it," Sailer said.
"This bill provides the financial support for the unfunded mandate enacted by the Legislature last year, and makes sure manufacturers will share in the responsibility of making sure old electronics are recycled properly, and in a way that is easier for consumers."
According to Sailer, Gov. Tim Pawlenty has signaled he will sign the bill into law.
