What's New

August 2004

Governor Pataki has signed a new law (effective 1-1-05) banning the sale of toy and novelties containing mercury. This same law prohibits schools from using mercury in the classroom (effective 9-4-04). Historically, I have advised our component school districts and BOCES to replace all their mercury thermometers and other equipment containing mercury with an alcohol or electronic substitute wherever possible. The inherent health and environmental risks associated with mercury make it too risky and costly to use.

Mercury-fever thermometers are also banned unless prescribed by a doctor. Primary and secondary schools are also prohibited from purchasing or using elemental mercury in the classroom. Disposal of mercury-added products must be done through a collector, solid waste management facility, recycling facility or authorized hazardous waste facility. If you need assistance in disposal of these articles please call Nick Lamberti at (914) 248-2457.

A copy of the Governor's press release may be found at the following link http://www.state.ny.us/governor/ - click on Press Releases and scroll down to July 12, 2004