AB 549 Summary

• Requires covered electronic waste to be demonstrated as generated by a person who used the device while located in California; waste generated outside the state and brought in is ineligible for payment.

• Changes payment conditions for electronic waste recycling from receipt of completed invoices to completion of the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery's review of payment claims, with a maximum 90-day examination period.

• Authorizes the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery to conduct selective audits of authorized collectors, covered e-waste recyclers, and manufacturers receiving payments to ensure compliance with the Electronic Waste Recycling Act.

• Establishes documentation requirements for demonstrating covered electronic waste was generated in California and clarifies that manufacturers taking back devices for recycling cannot receive both manufacturer payments and electronic waste recovery/recycling payments.

• Provides administrative appeal hearings before the Director of Resources Recycling and Recovery or designee, who must issue written decisions with factual and legal bases.