On July 1, Washington’s electronic-recycling law went into effect, changing the way Washington citizens will dispose of computers, computer monitors and televisions in the future. The new law requires manufacturers to offer free recycling of these electronic products by Jan. 1, 2009.

“This free service is a responsible step forward that guarantees no matter who owns the equipment at the end of its life, it will be recycled,” said Gov. Chris Gregoire. “This law minimizes government involvement and puts our competitive economy to work for people and the environment.”

“It will take time, but that’s because we’re starting from the ground up building this program,” said Cullen Stephenson, manager of the Department of Ecology’s solid-waste division. “Because this is a one-of-a-kind law, there is no precise template for implementing it. It’s forward thinking and we’re excited about the opportunity to work with the public to determine how the law will be carried out.”

Washington’s free electronics recycling law is unique in the nation.

Similar laws in other states place the responsibility for making e-recycling available on state government, requiring a fee to be collected at sale and paid to the state.

While full implementation progresses, Washington residents are urged to call toll free 800-RECYCLE (800-732-9253) or go online to http://www.1800recycle.wa.gov for information on recyclers who accept electronics.

Most services currently available do have a cost, but they allow the people of Washington to help keep toxic metals such as lead out of landfills and the environment. Electronic products contain heavy metals and other chemicals at hazardous levels that make them difficult to recycle or dispose of safely. For example, there is an estimated four to eight pounds of lead in every cathode ray picture tube.

Infants and children are a special concern because these toxic chemicals are known to have neurological and developmental effects when infants and children are exposed to them in high enough levels. Children tend to have greater exposure because, pound for pound, they breathe more air, drink more water and eat more food than adults.

The Department of Ecology will announce opportunities for the public to be involved.

Citizens will be able to comment on the draft rule and attend public hearings later this summer.