Problem Description:

• While compact fluorescent lamps [CFLs] deliver much higher efficiency than incandescent lamps in converting electrical power into light, each one contains a small amount of mercury [Hg], a toxic chemical.
• Sales of CFLs are increasing as prices come down, but no convenient means of recycling burned out or damaged bulbs exists today.

• North Carolina State Legislature should pass a bill as quickly as possible to mandate recycling of CFLs, effective within one year or less from "now."
• Bill should mandate that all CFL retailers [above some minimum quatity per month or year] must provide save and secure CFL recycling/storage bins at all of their stores.
• Sellers and recyclers who implement recycling bins and recycling processes will be exempt from all primary or secondary damage suits from anyone claiming "harm" from the recycling process, providing they can prove that they followed all applicable safety precautions and methods.
• Similarly, all "whistle-blowers" who call attention to retailers or recyclers who fail to follow precautions are to be protected from being fired or harrassed for their actions.