New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06191

Introduced
2/26/25  
Refer
2/26/25  

Caption

Enacts the affordable waste reduction act"; defines terms; provides for registration of producer responsibility organizations and service providers; establishes the producer responsibility advisory board; provides for department of environmental conservation responsibilities; provides for producer responsibility advisory board, organization, producer and service provider responsibilities; creates a recyclable or compostable covered materials lists and exempt materials list; establishes producer fees; provides for service provider reimbursement; makes related provisions.

Summary

Bill A06191, known as the Affordable Waste Reduction Act, aims to amend the environmental conservation law by establishing a comprehensive framework for producer responsibility regarding waste management in New York. It mandates producers to implement and finance a statewide program for packaging and paper products that encourages waste reduction, reuse, recycling, and composting. The bill outlines the formation of producer responsibility organizations, which will oversee the compliance of producers with the stewardship plans and establish a producer responsibility advisory board to guide the implementation of the act. Additionally, it sets forth definitions, responsibilities for producers and service providers, and the establishment of recyclable or compostable materials lists. The legislation also introduces a fee structure for producers based on the amount of covered materials they introduce into the state, which will fund the programs established under the act. It aims to enhance the collection and processing of recyclable materials, ensure responsible markets for waste materials, and reduce the environmental impact of waste generation. The bill emphasizes the importance of public awareness and education on waste management practices, encouraging community participation in recycling and composting efforts.

Impact

If enacted, Bill A06191 will significantly alter the landscape of waste management in New York by placing the onus of responsibility on producers for the lifecycle of their packaging and paper products. This includes financial accountability through producer fees and the establishment of a stewardship plan that must be approved by the Department of Environmental Conservation. The bill will also create a formal structure for producer responsibility organizations and advisory boards, which will enhance oversight and accountability in waste management practices. The establishment of recyclable and compostable materials lists will guide both producers and consumers in making environmentally conscious choices, ultimately aiming to improve recycling rates and reduce landfill waste.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A06191 appears to be cautiously optimistic, with support for its goals of reducing waste and enhancing recycling efforts. However, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for producers and the feasibility of implementing the proposed stewardship plans. Discussions in committee may reflect a mix of enthusiasm for environmental protection and apprehension about the regulatory burden on businesses, particularly small producers who may struggle with compliance costs.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the financial responsibilities imposed on producers, particularly smaller businesses that may find it challenging to absorb the costs associated with compliance and fees. There may also be debates regarding the effectiveness of the proposed stewardship plans and whether they will genuinely lead to improved waste management outcomes. Additionally, discussions may focus on the definitions of recyclable and compostable materials, as well as the criteria for exempt materials, which could affect various industries differently.

Companion Bills

NY S05062

Same As Enacts the affordable waste reduction act"; defines terms; provides for registration of producer responsibility organizations and service providers; establishes the producer responsibility advisory board; provides for department of environmental conservation responsibilities; provides for producer responsibility advisory board, organization, producer and service provider responsibilities; creates a recyclable or compostable covered materials lists and exempt materials list; establishes producer fees; provides for service provider reimbursement; makes related provisions.

Previously Filed As

NY S05062

Enacts the affordable waste reduction act"; defines terms; provides for registration of producer responsibility organizations and service providers; establishes the producer responsibility advisory board; provides for department of environmental conservation responsibilities; provides for producer responsibility advisory board, organization, producer and service provider responsibilities; creates a recyclable or compostable covered materials lists and exempt materials list; establishes producer fees; provides for service provider reimbursement; makes related provisions.

NY S08502

Enacts the "fast fashion waste responsibility act" in relation to extended producer responsibility for textile products.

NY A08168

Relates to establishing extended producer responsibility for tires; provides that no later than June 30, 2027 a producer shall submit a plan for the establishment of a collection program for tires; establishes the tire extended producer responsibility fund.

NY S07553

Relates to establishing extended producer responsibility for tires; provides that no later than June 30, 2027 a producer shall submit a plan for the establishment of a collection program for tires; establishes the tire extended producer responsibility fund.

NY S03217

Establishes extended producer responsibility for textiles; requires a producer, either individually or cooperatively in a group or with a representative organization to submit to the department of environmental conservation a plan for the establishment of a collection program for textile covered products.

NY A06193

Establishes extended producer responsibility for textiles; requires a producer, either individually or cooperatively in a group or with a representative organization to submit to the department of environmental conservation a plan for the establishment of a collection program for textile covered products.

OR HB4144

Relating to batteries.

RI H6207

Provides extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper, recycling of beverage containers, and provides general provisions for oversight of single-stage producer organizations.

RI S0996

Provides extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper, recycling of beverage containers, and provides general provisions for oversight of single-stage producer organizations.

MN SF2619

Paper products exemption from the extended producer responsibility program managing solid waste provision

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.