The Mercury-Free Thermostat Act (Act No. 97 and House Bill 44) was signed into law on October 9, 2008, setting goals for collection, recycling, and phasing out of mercury thermostats.
Highlights of the legislation that may affect small businesses who use and/or sell mercury-based thermostats include:
- By June 6, 2009, manufacturers must develop and implement a plan for collection and recycling of mercury thermostats, and must provide annual reports
- Effective December 8, 2009:
- The sale, installation and disposal of mercury thermostats is prohibited
- Wholesalers must participate as collection points for mercury containing thermostats. If they do not participate, they cannot sell any non-mercury containing devices
- Retailers and contractors must participate as collection points of mercury containing thermostats, or provide notice to customers that recycling mercury thermostats is required under PA law and identify nearby collection points
More information can be found on the DEP's website. Enter keyword "mercury".