2009 Montana Legislation-SB 424
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WVE passed legislation in the 2009 session for the collection and safe disposal of mercury-added thermostats. |
Mercury is a persistent bioaccumulative toxin and a potent neurotoxin. It is easily passed from a mother to her developing child in the womb and through breast milk, causing serious neurological disorders.
One in 6 women have high enough mercury levels in their blood to put their infants at risk for nuerological disorders. Read more about the health effects of mercury exposure here.
Why is WVE focusing on thermostats?
- Mercury thermostats represent the largest amount of mercury in ordinary household products
- When thermostats are not disposed of properly and safely, mercury leaks out to contaminate the environment and eventually ends up in our bodies.
- Of the 63 million mercury-containing thermostats in use, 2-3 million are disposed of each year; Only 4% are recycled.
What does SB 424 require?
- Requires manufacturers of mercury-added thermostats to set up collection programs in Montana.
- Prohibits a manufacturer from selling mercury thermostats in the state
- Read more details about the legislation here.
How will this legislation protect Montana's women and children?
- Over the lifetime of a state collection program hundreds of pounds of mercury in thermostats currently in use could be diverted from entering Montana's landfills.
- Increasing educational programs to prevent mercury thermostats from entering landfills will mean fewer women and children suffer from mercury exposure.
WVE Commentary on KUFM Public Radio