Among New Illinois laws: No Dumping Electronics

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Environmental officials say there are concerns that heavy metals in electronics could cause groundwater pollution if they leach out of a landfill. Photo Credit: Luca Masters
Environmental officials say there are concerns that heavy metals in electronics could cause groundwater pollution if they leach out of a landfill. Photo Credit: Luca Masters

CHICAGO - Got a new computer for Christmas? Finally replaced that old cell phone? Ready to toss the fax machine?

Don't plan on throwing them in the trash. Starting Jan. 1, Illinois residents must now recycle their old electronics under a law aimed at keeping the items out of landfills.

Environmental officials say there are concerns that heavy metals in electronics could cause groundwater pollution if they leach out of a landfill. But the metals including gold, copper and cadmium also can be recovered and reused.

It's one of more than 200 laws that took effect New Year's Day dealing with everything from lost pets to online bullying.

Residents can call their county or municipal solid waste coordinators to find out where to recycle. The law prevents consumers from being charged. APBy TAMMY WEBBERAssociated Press text, photo and/or graphic material shall not be published, broadcast, rewritten for broadcast or publication or redistributed directly or indirectly in any medium. Neither these AP Materials nor any portion thereof may be stored in a computer except for personal and non-commercial use. The AP will not be held liable for any delays, inaccuracies, errors or omissions therefrom or in the transmission or delivery of all or any part thereof or for any damages arising from any of the foregoing.

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