AB 278

This bill relates to the collection, recycling, and disposal of certain electronic

devices.

Manufacturers of video display devices, computers, and printers

In general

This bill imposes a number of requirements on manufacturers of consumer

video display devices, consumer computers, and consumer printers (covered

electronic devices). A consumer video display device is a television or a computer

monitor that has a tube or screen of at least seven inches in the longest diagonal

dimension and that is marketed for use by individuals.

Under the bill, beginning on December 1, 2009, a manufacturer may not sell a

covered electronic device at retail, or to a retailer for resale, unless the manufacturer

registers with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), collects and recycles or

arranges for the collection and recycling of certain electronic devices, makes required

reports, and pays certain fees.

Beginning on May 1, 2010, the bill also prohibits a retailer from selling a

covered electronic device unless the retailer determines that the manufacturer is

registered with DNR.

Registration of manufacturers

The bill requires a manufacturer to register annually with DNR. The

registration must include a list of the manufacturer's brands that are sold in this

state, contact information, and a certification that the manufacturer complies with

the requirements in the bill. Beginning in 2010, the bill requires a manufacturer to

disclose, when it registers, whether its covered electronic devices comply with

European Union limitations on the presence of certain hazardous substances,

including lead and mercury, in electronic devices.

The bill authorizes DNR to revoke the registration of a manufacturer that

violates the requirements in the bill.

Collection and recycling; reporting

The bill requires a manufacturer of covered electronic devices to collect and

recycle or arrange for the collection and recycling of certain electronic devices that

were used by individuals. Collecting more electronic devices, by weight, lowers the

shortfall fees that a manufacturer is required to pay, as described below. A

manufacturer is not limited to collecting electronic devices made by the

manufacturer and is not limited to collecting covered electronic devices. The

electronic devices that are counted as satisfying a manufacturer's obligation to

collect and recycle (eligible electronic devices), in addition to covered electronic

devices, include computer peripherals, digital video players, and video recorders

used by individuals. Electronic devices used by businesses do not count toward a

manufacturer's obligation to collect and recycle.

The bill requires a manufacturer to make annual reports to DNR of the weight