The Brief
- Lawmakers are considering a bill to address infectious medical waste sent to regular trash facilities.
- The bill follows a FOX 9 investigation revealing body parts, blood, syringes and more at a local waste center.
- The new version funds a study to find solutions, with further action expected from the next legislature.
ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) – State lawmakers are taking action after a FOX 9 investigation revealed disturbing medical waste showing up at regular trash facilities.
Legislature responds to medical waste concerns
What we know:
The bill, now headed for a House vote, targets the problem of infectious waste — including body parts, blood, syringes and even a bag labeled ‘monkeypox’ — being delivered to places like the Ramsey-Washington recycling and energy center. The materials are supposed to be sent to one of seven certified disposal sites.
“This is a law actually that you had to do this separation back to 1989. What’s happening is recently it’s gotten to the point where it’s not being followed,” said Rep. Wayne Johnson (R-Cottage Grove)…