Proposed 2025 Amendments to the Consumer Electronics Recycling Act (CERA): Enhancing E-Waste Management in Illinois

February 12, 2025

The Consumer Electronics Recycling Act (CERA) has been a crucial policy in Illinois since its passage in 2017, providing stable, manufacturer-funded electronics recycling services. However, with its scheduled repeal on December 31, 2026, unless amended, key updates are being proposed to modernize and improve the program. The 2025 CERA Amendment (SB 2414 / HB 3098) seeks to formalize best practices, expand participation, and adapt to the evolving electronics landscape by:

Key Proposed Amendments

The amendments have been carefully crafted in collaboration with manufacturers, recyclers, retailers, and local governments to enhance the effectiveness of CERA. Key proposed changes include:

Adding More Covered Devices

The list of devices eligible for recycling under CERA is one of the most comprehensive in the U.S.
The amendment proposes adding home audio components and peripherals to the covered categories.

Improving Reporting on Private Network Collections

Currently, private networks, non-profits, and retailers handle nearly 60% of covered electronics, yet their collections are not reported to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA).
The amendment introduces new reporting requirements for these entities, ensuring a clearer picture of electronic waste recycling efforts.

Expanding Access by Adding Covered Entities

The updated law would allow non-profits, schools, churches, local governments, and businesses to participate in collection programs, provided they deliver seven or fewer devices at a time.
This change aims to make e-waste recycling more accessible to a broader audience.

Encouraging More County Participation

Currently, 38 counties have opted into the program, covering 86% of Illinois’s population.
To encourage more counties to participate, the amendment waives underweight trailer fees and establishes best practices for opt-in procedures.

Increasing Consumer Awareness

Efforts will be made to improve online resources and create best practices for educating consumers on proper electronic waste disposal.

Removing the Sunset Date

Instead of facing automatic repeal in 2026, the program will remain in place with the option for future amendments as needed.

How CERA Works

Under the existing law:

• Electronics manufacturers fund the recycling of unwanted devices collected from approved entities.
• No fees are charged at the time of sale.
• Certain covered devices are banned from landfills (ban began January 1, 2012).
• Counties must opt in to participate, and collection sites/events are assigned based on population size.
• A manufacturer clearinghouse oversees the recycling program and assigns recyclers to opt-in counties.

Covered Devices Under CERA

CERA mandates recycling for the following devices:

• Computers, monitors, and peripherals (keyboards, mice, printers, zip drives).
• Televisions, video game consoles, MP3 players, and cable/satellite receivers.
• Fax machines, PDAs, and video recorders/players.
• 2025 Amendment Addition: Home audio components and peripherals.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 CERA Amendment represents a significant step toward improving electronic waste recycling in Illinois. By expanding covered entities, reducing county barriers, increasing transparency, and modernizing collection strategies, the proposed changes aim to enhance the state’s e-waste management system while making recycling more accessible for consumers and organizations alike.

For more details, contact:
Marta Keane – ILPSC Chair | mkeane@willcountygreen.com
Christina Seibert – Electronics Recycling Task Force Chair | christina@swancc.org

With these amendments, Illinois continues to lead in responsible electronics recycling, ensuring a sustainable and efficient system for years to come.