Oct 18 - PA - E-Waste Bill Passes out of the Senate

The Pennsylvania Senate has passed House Bill 708 with a 48-to-1 count.

HB 708 by Representative Ross establishes an extended producer responsibility-based take-back program for the recovery of desktop and notebook computers, computer monitors and televisions generated by residents.

Manufacturers of covered products must register with the state and create a take-back program, either independently or jointly with other producers. Television manufacturers would be responsible for recovering their market share portion, while computer manufacturers would be responsible for their return share portion. All fees generated through this program will be deposited into the state's Recycling Fund and used to fund program activities and outreach, as well as other Commonwealth-based recycling programs.

If enacted, the program would commence a full calendar year beginning on or after January 1, 2011.

The bill is now back in the house for a concurrence vote.