Texas House Bill HB3422

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a program for the collection, transportation, recycling, and disposal of mercury-containing lights.

Impact

The legislation will amend the Health and Safety Code by adding a new subchapter focusing on mercury-containing light collection programs. This will require manufacturers to finance, manage, and maintain collection programs, essentially placing the responsibility of proper disposal on the manufacturers' shoulders. It also outlines the procedures for retailers and wholesalers to support these initiatives by providing collection points and including educational materials with their products, which aims to foster greater awareness and participation among consumers.

Summary

House Bill 3422 is an act concerning the establishment of a comprehensive program aimed at the collection, transportation, recycling, and safe disposal of mercury-containing lights, including lamps and bulbs. The bill mandates that manufacturers of mercury-containing lights are responsible for setting up and maintaining these collection programs, ensuring that out-of-service lights are managed properly. The bill's provisions seek to prevent mercury from entering the waste stream, thereby protecting environmental and public health in Texas.

Contention

One potential point of contention surrounding HB 3422 involves the limitations it imposes on how and where mercury-containing lights can be disposed of. Critics might argue that the bill could place undue burdens on small retailers and manufacturers by mandating compliance with complex recycling procedures. Additionally, there may be discussions regarding the effectiveness of the educational outreach components and whether they're sufficient to ensure consumer participation in proper light disposal practices. Balancing environmental concerns with economic considerations will be an essential part of the ongoing debate on this legislation.