HB2415 Summary

• Creates the Mercury Thermostat Collection Act requiring thermostat manufacturers to establish and maintain Agency-approved collection and recycling programs for mercury thermostats by July 1, 2010.

• Manufacturers must submit collection plans by January 1, 2010, and achieve escalating collection goals: 15% (2011-2012), 30% (2013-2014), 50% (2015-2016), and 80% (2017+) of mercury thermostats removed from service annually.

• Prohibits thermostat wholesalers and retailers from selling non-mercury thermostats unless they participate in an approved collection program, and requires technicians to deliver removed mercury thermostats to collection points.

• Establishes civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation for manufacturers (up to $5,000 for subsequent violations) and up to $250 for wholesalers, technicians, and retailers, with daily penalties continuing violations.

• Requires the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency to develop educational materials, post collection program information on its website, and make recommendations to the Governor and General Assembly by January 1, 2011.