Having passed both chambers, House Bill 344 requires computer manufacturers to implement a program solely for the recovery of desktop and laptop computers, computer monitors and other computer-related display devices. The state-approved program may consist of several different recovery options, including:

• A mail-back system, where consumers could go online, print a prepaid shipping label and ship the product free of charge
• A physically staffed collection site
• The use of collection events.

Manufacturers also could recover used and moribund electronics by creating a joint management group that consisted of other producers, processors, re-use organizations, non-profit corporations or retailers, just to name a few.

The most notable provision of HB 344, though, is that it forbids the state from imposing any advanced recovery or annual registration fees upon either the consumer or the manufacturer. The measure, however, does allow the state to issue penalties against manufacturers in violation of the act, including $10,000 as of the second violation and $25,000 for each subsequent violation. The program would take effect July 1, 2009.

Already receiving Governor Kaine's signature, HB 343 will prohibit the disposal of CRTs in a waste-to-energy or solid waste disposal facility, provided the locality has implemented a recycling program capable of handling CRT waste. The act takes effect July 1, 2008.

Story originally posted in resource-recycling.com's e-scrap news