E-waste recovery bill clears Washington House

By Austin Jenkins
Northwest News Network

Have you been wondering what to do with that old computer in the basement? Washington may soon have a free e-waste recycling program. Legislation passed the House of Representatives Thursday.

If you're like most people you have a collection of e-waste cluttering your basement, garage or attic. Now legislation has passed the Washington House and Senate that will create free drop-off sites. It requires TV and computer-makers to foot the bill for the statewide e-waste recycling program.

Democrat Representative Dave Upthegrove from Des Moines says, "This is an innovative, progressive proposal that uses free-market forces, privatizes the recycling and will result in a better, cleaner environment."

Some argued for a California-style system. That's where the consumer pays a recycling fee at the point of purchase. The e-waste bill needs to make one more stop in the Senate before it heads to the governor. If signed into law, it will take three years for the program to be fully up and running.