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Governor Gregoire Signs Landmark E-Recycling Bill

For Immediate Release: March 24, 2006

Bill will allow Washington consumers to recycle computers and televisions for free


OLYMPIA � Governor Chris Gregoire today signed into law a measure that will allow Washington consumers to recycle their old computers, monitors and televisions at no cost (SB 6428).

�This bill puts our market-based economy to work for the environment,� said Governor Gregoire. �It's a responsible step in the best interests of the public, because no matter who owns the equipment at the end of its life, it will be recycled - free of charge.�

Used and unwanted computers, monitors and televisions contain materials that can be recovered and reused, but if simply discarded they can release hazardous substances into the environment. This bill creates a system to collect, recycle and properly dispose of these items.

Household consumers, schools, charities, small governments and small businesses will be able to dispose of their used products without charge. The cost of the program will be distributed among the manufacturers.

The Governor issued a partial veto on the bill, on Section 26, which would have restricted the export of e-waste to certain other countries. The federal government, not Washington, has the authority to restrict these exports.

For information on all bill action, please visit Governor Gregoire's website or the Washington Legislature website.

Legislation signed today by Governor Gregoire:

House Bills:
�1010, 1020, 1069, 1471, 2155, 2345, 2352, 2366, 2379, 2380, 2402, 2415, 2477, 2479, 2520, 2543, 2567, 2606, 2617, 2644, 2690, 2691, 2695, 2716, 2780, 2799, 2829, 2898, 2975, 2985 and 2991.

Senate Bills:
�6141, 6225, 6401, 6415, 6417, 6428, 6670, 6776 and 6840.


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