Common Household Item is Now Illegal Here in Minnesota

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It's something you probably have in your house right now but it's actually now banned here in Minnesota.

These handy, common items were once found in just about every house here in the Land of 10,000 Lakes ever since they were first invented by Thomas Edison back in the late 1800s. But as of July 1st, the sale of certain types of incandescent light bulbs is now actually banned not only here in Minnesota, but across the country.

It's all part of a new policy adopted last year by the U.S. Energy Department (DOE) to try to be more energy efficient. This story in The Hill says that in their place, manufacturers and retailers have replaced most incandescent bulbs with new LED bulbs, which last longer, provide more light, and last longer than traditional, old-school incandescent bulbs. (The DOE says LED lights provide 75% more light and last 25% longer than the more inefficient incandescent bulbs.)

READ MORE: These Two Items Will Remain Banned at Grocery Stores in Minnesota This Year As Well

The Hill noted that the switchover will also help the environment, as well, noting the DOE said the new LED bulbs are projected to cut planet-warming carbon emissions by 222 million metric tons over the next 30 years. That's roughly the amount equivalent to emissions generated by 28 million homes in one year, the DOE said.

So while the DOE won't be coming to your house to make sure you're not still using an incandescent bulb, The Hill said there *are* fines that manufacturers and retailers can face that started as of July 1st, 2023.

The DOE warned manufacturers and retailers about the change at the beginning of the year in January, with full enforcement beginning July 1st, 2023. Manufacturers who violate the ban could face a maximum penalty of $542 per illicit bulb.

If your household is similar to mine, the switchover shouldn't really be much of a big deal. We've pretty much switched out all the bulbs in our house to the new LED versions, over the past several years, including most holiday light displays as well.

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You can read more about the DOE's decision and how you could be affected HERE. And speaking of things not being produced anymore, while certain incandescent bulbs have now essentially been discontinued, keep scrolling to check out 15 favorite McDonald's menu items that are also not available anymore, either.