Maine 2023-2024 Regular Session

Maine Senate Bill LD127

Introduced
1/10/23  
Refer
1/10/23  

Caption

An Act to Eliminate Television Recycling Fees for Charitable Entities

Impact

If passed, LD127 will have significant implications for both charitable organizations and local municipalities in terms of economic and environmental aspects. By removing these fees, the bill would facilitate greater access to recycling resources for smaller nonprofits, encouraging them to responsibly dispose of electronic waste. On a broader scale, this legislation could promote better environmental practices among these organizations, as it alleviates one of the barriers to recycling electronic devices.

Summary

LD127 is a legislative proposal aimed at eliminating recycling fees for televisions charged to certain nonprofit organizations. The bill specifically targets entities that are classified as 501(c)(3) nonprofits under the IRS code and that employ 100 or fewer individuals. Under the current electronic waste law, municipalities or consolidators can impose fees on these organizations for recycling televisions. LD127 seeks to amend this provision, thereby exempting eligible nonprofits from these charges, which are often a financial burden.

Sentiment

The sentiment around LD127 appears to be generally positive among supporters, particularly from the nonprofit sector and environmental advocates. They argue that the financial relief provided by the bill will empower small organizations to recycle more effectively. However, there may be concerns from local governments regarding the loss of revenue that recycling fees provide, which could lead to a conflicted stance among municipal leaders.

Contention

While there is a clear intent to support nonprofits with LD127, some critiques may arise regarding the potential loss of funds for local governments that rely on these fees to fund electronic waste management programs. Furthermore, the definition of what constitutes a 'television' and the specifics of what types of nonprofits are eligible may lead to discussions on clarity and enforcement of the new regulations. As the bill progresses through legislative discussions, balancing the needs of local municipalities with support for nonprofit organizations will likely be a focal point.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME HB3098

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS RECYCLING

ME SB2414

CONSUMER ELECTRONICS RECYCLING

ME HB3220

Relating to electronics recycling; and prescribing an effective date.

ME SB61

Electronic Device Recycling

ME SB175

Electronic Device Recycling

ME HB821

Relating to the sale, recovery, and recycling of certain television equipment; providing administrative penalties.

ME SB3006

Relating To Recycling.

ME S554

To require producer responsibility for collection, reuse and recycling of discarded electronic products

ME H871

To require producer responsibility for collection, reuse and recycling of discarded electronic products

ME HB1640

Relating To Recycling.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.