The Assembly session may be over, but the bills that were passed don't become law until the governor signs off on them. With a Democratic Assembly and a Republican governor, that assent can't be assumed.

Today, the folks at Clean Water Action, who worked so hard to get an e-waste bill passed, now are asking for supporters to contact Governor Carcieri to express support for the bill. Click on "More..." for the details.

Action Alert - from Clean Water Action
 
Last Saturday, the General Assembly passed the Electronic Waste Prevenion, Reuse, and Recycling Act (S2631, H7880) with overwhelming support.

Now we need the Governor to sign this great bill into law. Please take a moment to call the Governor's office today to let him know you support this bill, too. Please call Governor Carcieri today at 222-2080 and urge him to support the Electronic Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling Act.

In 2006, the General Assembly passed a law banning electronic waste from our landfill starting in July of this year. This bill takes the next step to create a system for the collection and recycling of computers and televisions.

This bill will benefit all Rhode Islanders in several ways:
--     Saves money for schools, the state and our municipalities
The RIRRC recycling program currently costs taxpayers about $125,000 a year. This bill will eliminate that expense, which is only expected to grow as the disposal ban comes into effect.
 
--     Supports local businesses
The bill will educate consumers about recycling options and promote local recycling businesses.
 
--     Saves space in the landfill
The RIRRC collected 534,438 pounds of electronic waste last year, and each year brings more.
 
--     Good for the environment
Computers and televisions contain toxic materials—like lead, mercury and cadmium—which should be kept out of the Landfill.

Please help make sure Rhode Island joins the other 13 states that have similar laws.
 
Please call Governor Carcieri today at 222-2080 and urge him to support the Electronic Waste Prevention, Reuse and Recycling Act.

Thanks,
Sheila

Sheila Dormody
Rhode Island director | Clean Water Action