MILWAUKEE – Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle has signed a bill to ban computers, fax machines, and other so-called e-waste from Wisconsin's landfills.
 
In signing the bill, Doyle acted upon recommendations from a governor’s task force on Waste Materials Discovery and Disposal, which outlined a plan for reducing waste and use resources in an economically and environmentally sound manner.

The task force had suggested promoting recycling and reuse of discarded televisions, monitors, and laptop and desktop computers.

The decision is sure to force a change on consumers’ e-waste disposal habits. A recent Consumer Reports survey of 2,000 Americans found only 11 to 17% said they recycle electronics.

The prohibition takes effect on September 1, 2010.