From the R2 Update Newsletter

The Illinois legislature is currently considering a proposal that attempts to change the R2 standard and certification program (and also e-Stewards).  House Bill 6321 – the bill currently under consideration –  includes language to prohibit Certification Bodies from taking any action if a certified recycler uses retrievable storage for CRT glass.  R2 does not allow retrievable storage of CRT glass, instead requiring that it be recycled.  The capacity exists for all CRT glass to be recycled.

Never before has a state attempted to dictate what a voluntary consensus-based standard can require.  And never before has a state attempted to prohibit Certification Bodies  from “taking negative action” when a certified company is not in conformance with such a standard.

SERI is working to prevent House Bill 6321 in its current form from becoming law.  SERI has hired a top-notch Illinois lobbying firm, and a highly respected legal team, as part of its comprehensive effort.  SERI’s objective is to have the bill amended by deleting  the language that seeks to prevent Certification Bodies from doing their jobs, as this would have serious negative ramifications for the integrity and value of the R2 certification program.

The current status of the bill is up in the air.  The Illinois House has passed it, however the Senate has not yet voted.  SERI is hopeful the legal arguments it has raised against a state intruding in a voluntary certification program will be persuasive to Senators, as well as the Governor’s and Attorney General’s offices, and that the legislature will strike the problematic language from the bill. 

SERI will provide updates as this matter continues to unfold.