Calif. judge tells Target to stop hazmat disposal

A California judge has ordered Target Corp. to stop improperly disposing of damaged or defective items that qualify as hazardous waste.

Alameda County Superior Court Judge Steven Brick signed the order Friday based on allegations brought by the state and several cities and counties.

Their lawsuit contends that Target stores statewide have routinely thrown hazardous items such as bleach, pesticides, paint, aerosols and electronics directly into the trash.

Among the claims, the Los Angeles city attorney's office says Los Angeles stores sent more than 5,000 pounds of unsalable hazardous products to a regional food bank.

Minneapolis-based Target says in a statement that the company has a comprehensive program in place to ensure stores comply with California law.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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