The lack of a safe and secure disposal method for unwanted medicines in our homes poses a serious concern in our communities.  Medicines that are thrown down the drain or in the garbage may end up in our streams, groundwater and drinking water.  Drugs that accumulate in our homes can contribute to accidental poisonings and illegitimate access that can lead to abuse.

The Secure Medicine Return Bill will result in a cost-effective medicine disposal program that is convenient, safe and secure for residents throughout Washington State.  Drug companies will pay for and implement take back programs for the collection, transportation and disposal of unwanted drugs from residential sources, thus reducing the chance they get in the wrong hands.  This “producer responsibility” approach is similar to British Columbia’s industry-run program, which has operated for more than 10 years and is funded by an association of over 100 drug companies as a cost of doing business. View the bill summary!

Where's the Bill now?

HB 3064, the Secure Medicine Return Bill, was unanimously voted out of the House Environmental Health Committee on January 30, 2008! Click here to read the full length version of the bill and view it's status.

 View the current list of endorsers. If your organization would like to endorse this bill, please contact us.