Soon, I plan on re-introducing Senate Bill 455 from the 2023-24 legislative session. SB 455 was previously sponsored by Senators Pennycuick, Bartolotta and Hutchinson.
 
Computers, televisions and all sorts of electronic devices have been placed on the Controlled Device Recycling Act (CDRA) to ensure that the harmful chemicals in them do not end up in our landfills and leaching into water supplies.

One glaring exception to the list is solar panels. These devices contain lead and cadmium along with other chemicals which are harmful to the people and the environment, yet they are not on the list. We also have no place in Pennsylvania where these devices can be recycled.

Japan was an early adopter of solar and they are suffering the consequences of not having in place the means of recycling them. Since China and other Asian countries stopped taking them for recycling because of the birth defects and other harmful effects, panels have been stacking up in Japan and elsewhere.

For these reasons I’m introducing legislation to have the photo-voltaic modules of solar panels added to the list of items covered under the CDRA. The costs of protecting the environment from the harmful effects of these devices should be placed on the manufacturers and those who choose to install them.

Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to protect our citizens and environment.