Bill > S404

This bill establishes a producer responsibility program for discarded electronic products, requiring manufacturers and importers of certain electronics, known as "covered electronic products" (which include computers, monitors, and televisions, but exclude items like motor vehicle parts or appliances), to manage their end-of-life collection, reuse, and recycling. Producers must register with the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and are financially responsible for the costs associated with collecting and recycling their products, including a share of "orphan waste" (products from unidentified or defunct manufacturers). The bill also outlines requirements for "collectors" (entities that gather discarded electronics) and "processors" (those who sort, reuse, or recycle them), all of whom must be registered with the DEP. The DEP will oversee the program, set fees, conduct audits, and report on its effectiveness, with penalties for non-compliance. An advisory commission will be established to provide guidance on policy and program development.