Astoria, OR — As of January 1, 2025, Oregon has officially prohibited the sale of fluorescent lightbulbs, becoming the seventh state to enact such legislation. The new law, House Bill 2531, aims to reduce environmental toxins by eliminating the sale of mercury-containing bulbs, which pose both health and environmental risks.
Fluorescent lightbulbs, which contain small amounts of mercury, are widely used but have long been a concern due to the toxic metal’s harmful effects. The ban encourages residents and businesses to transition to more energy-efficient alternatives, such as LED lights, which, while initially more expensive, offer significant benefits, including lower energy consumption and a longer lifespan. According to OSPIRG, a consumer advocacy group that supported the legislation, the switch to LEDs is expected to save Oregonians an estimated $49 million on electric bills by 2030.
Some businesses have already made the transition to LED lighting, while others are awaiting the burnout of their fluorescent bulbs before making the switch. Doug White, assistant manager at True Value Hardware in Eugene, noted that some customers have proactively stocked up on fluorescent bulbs before the ban took effect. Others are exploring LED options as part of their future plans.
However, the new law has caught some businesses off guard. Kelly Obrien, vice president of Builders Electric Inc., reported that her company has received numerous calls from homeowners surprised by the regulation. In some cases, the transition to LEDs may require rewiring certain fixtures to accommodate the new lighting technology.
While businesses and residents adjust to the new law, the proper disposal of fluorescent bulbs remains a critical concern. Due to their mercury content, these bulbs cannot be thrown away in regular trash. Instead, they must be taken to designated hazardous waste centers or participating hardware stores like True Value and Jerrys in Eugene for safe disposal. The City of Eugene has made information about disposal sites available on its website to help residents navigate the process.
The ban on fluorescent lightbulbs is part of a broader initiative by Oregon to strengthen its environmental protections. The state has also enacted laws prohibiting Styrofoam food containers and introducing a new “right to repair” law, which advocates argue further solidify Oregon’s position as a leader in sustainability and environmental protection.
Breanna Stevens, campaign associate for OSPIRG, expressed optimism about Oregon’s role in shaping national environmental policies. “Oregon can often be a leader on many of these issues, and it’s exciting to see the state take proactive steps that could inspire change across the country,” Stevens said.
With the fluorescent bulb ban now in effect, Oregon continues to push for cleaner, more sustainable practices, reinforcing its commitment to environmental preservation and energy efficiency.
