Certain computer manufacturers in Maryland now have to pay a registration fee to the state that will help fund recycling programs. According to the Baltimore Chronicle & Sentinel, the law requires those that have manufactured more than 1,000 computers over the past three years to pay a $5,000 registration fee in order to continue selling computers in 2006. The registration fee can be reduced to $500 if computer manufacturers have previously initiated free take-back programs that are deemed acceptable by the Maryland Department of the Environment.

The collected fees will be used as grants to cities and counties to develop computer recycling activities and to assist with community education programs. According to the paper, the new law will affect about 150 manufacturers of desktop and laptop computers and monitors.