Key Points
- Illinois HB 4652 would require companies selling electronic smoking devices to create and fund safe disposal programs
- The bill is championed by two Pontiac Township High School students as a class project, drafted with the Illinois Environmental Council
- Students cite widespread littered vapes in their community and a nearby nature preserve, raising environmental and youth-exposure concerns
- Manufacturers would have two years to establish a stewardship program; violations could trigger civil penalties up to $10,000
- Filed by Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy, the bill is awaiting action in the House Executive Committee
2Firsts, March 9, 2026
According to information provided by the user, Illinois lawmakers are weighing House Bill 4652, a proposal aimed at tackling the growing problem of discarded vaping devices. The bill would require companies that sell electronic smoking devices to establish and finance programs for the safe collection and disposal of used devices.
HB 4652 is being championed by Pontiac Township High School students Andrew Diaz and Allison Hovaniec as part of a class project. The students say they began researching the issue after noticing large numbers of tossed vapes around their community, including at the Humiston Woods Nature Preserve. Working with the Illinois Environmental Council, they helped draft the legislation and are now seeking broader support, including bipartisan backing.
If enacted, manufacturers would have two years to set up a stewardship program. Companies that fail to comply could face civil penalties of up to $10,000. The students argue the plan should not add costs for consumers or the state, since manufacturers would be responsible for funding the disposal system. The bill was filed by Rep. Kelly M. Cassidy and is currently awaiting action in the House Executive Committee.
Photo source: WCIA
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