Díaz-Balart, Espaillat Reintroduce Bipartisan Secure E-Waste Export and Recycling Act

WASHINGTON, D.C.- Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart (R-FL-26) and Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13) reintroduced the Secure E-Waste Export and Recycling Act (SEERA)to strengthen U.S. national security by halting the export of electronic waste to high-risk foreign entities.

The bill would curb the flow of U.S. e-waste to foreign nations, which is on track to reach over 80 million tons by 2030. Upon its arrival in foreign nations, U.S. e-waste is frequently discarded in ways that are environmentally destructive, unlawfully turned into counterfeit electronics or insufficiently refurbished electronics products that are then resold as new. Concerningly, these counterfeit and unsafe electronics are often then resold to buyers in the United States, where the faulty materials can make their way into sensitive U.S. military equipment as well as critical U.S. infrastructure.

The Secure E-Waste Export and Recycling Act prohibits the export of specified e-waste and outlines the process for the registration and compliance of export declarations and for the disposal of electronic waste in the United States.

Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart said, "As we work to free America from unfair and hostile trade practices, the enactment of SEERA would be an important step in that direction-strengthening our national security against China and protecting our future. Proper handling of electronic waste ensures our critical data and infrastructure remain protected and that dangerous materials are handled responsibly. Importantly, it would set requirements for the recycling of these products to be done domestically while creating new jobs. Passing this legislation will fortify and reinforce our national security as well as our future."

Congressman Adriano Espaillat said, "As technology evolves faster than ever, so does the volume of electronic waste generated in the U.S.-waste that, if not properly managed, can pose serious risks to our national security and the environment. Today, unregulated actors around the world continue to exploit U.S. e-waste to manufacture counterfeit electronics, some of which re-enter the global supply chain and threaten consumer safety, cybersecurity, and intellectual property. Proper e-waste recycling isn't just an environmental issue-it's a national security imperative. SEERA addresses this urgent need by keeping sensitive materials out of the wrong hands, supporting climate goals, and creating thousands of American jobs through secure, domestic recycling infrastructure."