HOUSE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 687 Offered January 10, 2007 Prefiled January 10, 2007 Directing the Joint Commission on Technology and Science to study the collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic waste (eCycling). Report. ----------
Patrons-- Plum, Amundson, Bulova, Callahan, Caputo, Ebbin, Marsden, Moran, Rust, Scott, J.M. and Watts; Senators: Herring, Howell, Puller and Ticer
---------- Committee Referral Pending ----------

WHEREAS, the accumulation of electronic components containing small quantities of hazardous or dangerous materials and chemicals in landfills poses a serious threat to the citizens of the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, localities have the primary responsibility for initiating eCycling programs; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality continues to advocate and support local eCycling programs across the state; and

WHEREAS, despite the efforts of many localities, the majority of citizens in Virginia do not have access to continuous eCycling programs; and

WHEREAS, many private companies and electronics manufacturers have initiated free electronic recycling programs for their products; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the Joint Commission on Technology and Science be directed to study the collection, recycling, and disposal of electronic waste (eCycling).

In conducting its study, the Joint Commission on Technology and Science shall (i) recommend limitations on electronic waste in state landfills; (ii) research state and regional eCycling programs across the country; and (iii) make recommendations relating to a statewide or regional eCycling program that will provide all citizens of the Commonwealth with an opportunity to recycle or properly dispose of electronic waste.

Technical assistance shall be provided to the Joint Commission on Technology and Science by the Department of Environmental Quality. All agencies of the Commonwealth shall provide assistance to the Joint Commission on Technology and Science for this study, upon request.

The Joint Commission on Technology and Science shall complete its meetings by November 30, 2007, and the chairman shall submit to the Division of Legislative Automated Systems an executive summary of its findings and recommendations no later than the first day of the 2008 Regular Session of the General Assembly. The executive summary shall state whether the Joint Commission on Technology and Science intends to submit to the General Assembly and the Governor a report of its findings and recommendations for publication as a House or Senate document. The executive summary and report shall be submitted as provided in the procedures of the Division of Legislative Automated Systems for the processing of legislative documents and reports and shall be posted on the General Assembly's website.