Chamber Supports Bipartisan Electronic Waste Bill

HB 1589, authored by Rep. Mary Ann Sullivan (D – Indianapolis) and Sen. Beverly Gard (R – Greenfield), requires manufacturers of household televisions and computer monitors that contain cathode ray tubes or some flat panel screens to recycle certain electronic devices. The bill also requires that manufacturers of video display devices and collectors and recyclers of certain electronic devices register with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management.

According to Indiana Chamber VP of energy and environmental affairs Vince Griffin, electronic waste (E-waste) represents the fastest growing waste stream in our society. If handled improperly, it may present an environmental and public health threat.

"The large majority of landfills are built to the strictest standards and are appropriate final disposal sites for E-waste," Griffin explains. "However, to reuse and recycle these products is preferred. The Indiana Chamber supports a program that promotes responsible reuse/recycling of E-waste and the fee to pay for the handling, recycling and disposal of E-waste – though it should not be an unfair burden on Indiana business or consumers."

The Chamber has played a key role in working with all parties to realize a compromise bill. The bill passed out of Senate Energy and Environmental Committee Monday and is eligible to be heard by the legislature.