A California civil law passed last fall has gone into effect, raising the maximum penalty for mishandling hazardous waste to $70,000. Previously, the fine was $25,000. It now covers “for each separate violation or, for continuing violations, for each day that violation continues.”
This law especially effects HVAC contractors because it also explicitly covers mishandling mercury containing thermostats. These professionals are often the first businesses called for thermostat replacement, especially considering that they switch out old thermostats for new ones. However, with the new penalties enforced, those companies that may have ignored previous warnings will have a big price to pay.
Read the full story at www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/california-nearly-triples-daily-penalty-to-70-000-for-improper-hazardous-waste-disposal-300671269.html.