Relative to prohibiting the disposal of lithium-ion batteries in solid waste landfill facilities, composting facilities, or incinerators.
The passage of HB 1386 will amend existing statutes concerning waste management and electronic device disposal. This bill will expand the list of prohibited disposals to include not only lithium-ion batteries but also a broader range of electronic devices such as computers, printers, and peripherals. Local governments, solid waste districts, and landfill operators will be required to take measures to educate the public on these prohibitions, which may lead to increased expenditures in waste management and public outreach efforts, although it is anticipated that overall disposal expenses may decrease due to the reduction in hazardous waste incidents.
House Bill 1386 aims to prohibit the disposal of lithium-ion batteries and certain electronic devices in solid waste landfill facilities, composting facilities, or incinerators in New Hampshire. This legislation is designed to address the environmental hazards posed by these types of waste, as lithium-ion batteries can create fires in waste disposal facilities and release toxic materials when improperly disposed of. By banning the disposal of these items, the bill seeks to promote safer waste management practices and improve recycling efforts for problematic electronic waste.
Debate surrounding HB 1386 has raised questions about the adequacy of facilities’ capabilities to manage the recycling of these additional waste types, the costs associated with compliance, and the effectiveness of proposed public education efforts. Proponents of the bill assert that the benefits of managing electronic waste properly outweigh the initial costs, while opponents express concern over potential financial burdens that the implementation of this legislation may impose on local municipalities and waste management facilities. The bill's requirements may challenge existing infrastructures to adapt to the newly banned items, prompting discussions on the adequacy of current recycling programs.