March 2010

Vermont House Passes E-Waste Recycling Law
Senate version passed earlier. Legislation awaits governor’s signature.

Ban On Polystyrene Foam Food Service Ware Proposed In Chicago
The alderman who pushed for the city's plastic bag recycling ordinance has introduced a polystyrene foam ordinance.

Maryland General Assembly Approves BPA Ban
The Maryland Senate voted unanimously to ban bisphenol A (BPA) from childcare products.

Mercury-Containing Lamp Disposal Ban Introduced In Hawaii
Measure would prohibit landfill disposal or incineration of the lamps.

Brominated Flame Retardants Ban Proposed In Alaska
PentaBDE and octaBDE are targeted in House bill.

Second Carryout Bag Bill Introduced In Maryland House
The latest bill would require an in-store recycling program but not bag fees.

Rules On District Of Columbia’s New Bag Fee Finalized
Although DC retailers began charging a bag fee on January 1, the public comment period on how the ordinance would be implemented and enforced closed on March 5.

Market Development For Recycleables Being Considered In Florida
A new Recycling Business Assistance Center is proposed under Florida bill.

Connecticut Bill Would Create “Priority Chemicals” List
The bill would also ban cadmium in children’s products.

Washington Senate Moves To Ban Copper In Vehicle Brake Linings
Bill approved by Senate last Monday goes to Governor Christine Gregoire for signing into law.

US Senator Questions EPA About Delay On BPA Plan
EPA needs to show “the proper sense of urgency,” says Senator Charles Schumer in letter to EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson.

Plastic Bag Tax And Credit Program Proposed In Minnesota
Retailers would collect a 5-cent tax on each disposable carryout bag distributed and would be encouraged financially to offer a “carryout bag credit program.”

California Beverage Container Recycling Program Gets Needed Funding
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger signed a funding bill but cautioned that the bill does not make the necessary long-term changes that the program needs.

US Senate Subcommittee Holds Third Hearing On Chemical Safety
Chemical manufacturers presented their views and ideas at the March 9 hearing, prior to an expected bill introduction.

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