On September 30, California Governor Gray Davis vetoed electronic waste (e-waste) legislation passed by the CA legislature that would have established a $10 fee on new TVs and computer monitors to fund the recycling of e-waste. Environmentalists who have been leading the effort for e-waste legislation, while disappointed that a solution has still not been achieved, were also heartened by much of the Governor's veto statement, since it demonstrates a significant commitment to address the problem during next year’s legislative term.

"While we are disappointed that computer take-back legislation did not pass this year, we were pleased to see Governor Davis' commitment and support for a stronger and more comprehensive manufacturer take back bill next year," said Ted Smith, national coordinator for the Computer TakeBack Campaign. "The bills educated both the Governor and the legislature, as well as the general public, on this pressing issue."

Governor Davis made the following commitments and observations in his veto statement:

• California will have a new law next year.
• The new law will be modeled on the European approach to product stewardship.
• The governor called for an "environmentally sustainable electronics and technology industry that provides incentives to design products that are less toxic and more recyclable".
• The Governor will challenge industry to assume greater responsibility,saying "we should compel industry to solve this problem".
• The Governor acknowledges that California needs a comprehensive state law that establishes effective recycling targets and provides standards for the safe recycling of e-waste.
• The Governor acknowledges that the e-waste crisis is growing and needs a solution.
• The Governor acknowledges that e-waste export to developing countries is irresponsible and presents an unacceptable hazard.
• The Governor is directing the General Services Department to implement environmental preferable procurement actions
• The Governor is directing the Secretary of the Cal EPA to lead the process to accomplish these goals.

  "While we look forward to a strong proposal that is supported by the Governor and state legislators, there is an urgent need to continue building support at the local level for an e-waste solution," said Smith.

  Particularly hard hit are local communities that cannot absorb the costs of dealing with toxic e-waste. Recently, Bay Area leaders said they are prepared to introduce ordinances requiring all retailers of hi-tech products to have take-back programs so consumers can return obsolete computers and TVs at no cost. Retailers and electronics manufacturers would then have to ensure that the e-waste is properly recycled or disposed of.

  "Ultimately, we need a statewide and national approach. In the meantime, we will work with local governments to send a clear and convincing message that there must be no more delays in bringing forth a comprehensive solution to the e-waste crisis. We look forward to seeing computer take-back ordinances passed at the local level, in anticipation of a new state-wide effort next year” said Smith.

  On March 2001 the Department of Toxics Substances Control confirmed that it is ILLEGAL to discard ANY cathode ray tube (CRT) computer or television monitors in California municipal solid waste landfills.

  Electronic waste (e-waste) is one of the most rapidly growing waste problems in California and throughout the U.S. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, in 2000 more than 4.6 million tons of e-waste ended up in US landfills. This amount is projected to grow four-fold.

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