SACRAMENTO, Calif. (Legal Newsline) — California Attorney General Xavier Becerra and Alameda County District Attorney Nancy E. O’Malley announced Nov. 22 that DIRECTV has agreed to pay $8.9 million to settle allegations that it has disposed of large volumes of hazardous waste at facilities in the state.
“Unlawfully disposing of hazardous waste can lead to serious health and environmental risks. That is why DA O'Malley and I are holding DIRECTV accountable,” Becerra said. “The California Department of Justice will continue working to protect the health and well-being of our communities. We will prosecute those who violate our environmental laws.”
According to Becerra’s office, DIRECTV disposed of hazardous batteries, electronic devices and aerosols in violation of state laws—specifically California’s Hazardous Waste Control Law, and of California’s Unfair Competition Law.
“My office is dedicated to enforcing laws that protect the environment and ensure fair business practices," O'Malley said. "Any company doing business in Alameda County and in California must abide by these laws. The illegal disposal of hazardous waste pollutes our soil and our water and can be harmful to the health of humans as well as the environment.
“I thank the attorney general for his leadership on these important issues. I am confident we will continue to make strides in holding businesses accountable and keeping our environment free from toxic pollution.”