The legislation, introduced by Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Jim Talent, R-Mo., would create a national infrastructure to recycle end-of-life electronics, including computers, laptops, monitors and televisions.
The measure would prohibit the disposal of any electronics with a display screen larger than 4 inches in a landfill or incinerator three years after the bill´s passage. It also would establish a tax credit of $8 per unit for companies that recycle at least 5,000 display screens or computer systems annually, and a tax credit of $15 per unit for consumers who recycle old computers and televisions at a qualified recycler.
The bill would modify the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency´s Universal Waste Rule to classify display screens and computers as universal waste, allowing for easier collection, transportation and processing of the material. Federal agencies are required under the proposal to recycle every computer system and monitor they procure.
For more information, go to http://wyden.senate.gov/media/2005/03032005_ewaste.html.
