Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB778

Introduced
12/12/25  
Refer
12/12/25  

Caption

An Act to create 20.370 (6) (pr), 25.46 (1) (pr) and 287.30 of the statutes; Relating to: packaging reduction and recycling, creating a producer responsibility program, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty.

Impact

The implications of SB778 extend to various state laws concerning waste management and environmental protection. By placing the responsibility on producers, the bill seeks to promote more sustainable practices within industries that rely heavily on packaging. This legislative measure is expected to lead to a significant decrease in packaging waste entering landfills and improve recycling rates across the state. Additionally, it empowers regulatory authorities to create the necessary rules and framework to support the bill's goals.

Summary

SB778 proposes a comprehensive approach to addressing packaging waste through the establishment of a producer responsibility program. This program is designed to encourage manufacturers to take accountability for the lifecycle of their packaging, ultimately aiming to reduce the amount of waste generated. The bill includes provisions for creating guidelines on packaging reduction and sets forth a framework for implementing recycling efforts that align with environmental sustainability goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB778 include debates over the financial implications for businesses and the effectiveness of producer responsibility programs. Critics express concerns that imposing additional responsibilities on manufacturers could lead to increased costs, which might be passed down to consumers. Furthermore, there are discussions about the adequacy of enforcement mechanisms and penalties outlined in the bill, with some stakeholders arguing that they may not be stringent enough to ensure compliance.

Companion Bills

WI AB772

Crossfiled An Act to create 20.370 (6) (pr), 25.46 (1) (pr) and 287.30 of the statutes; Relating to: packaging reduction and recycling, creating a producer responsibility program, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty.

Previously Filed As

WI AB772

Packaging reduction and recycling, creating a producer responsibility program, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty.

WI SB1178

Creating the Wisconsin Climate Corps program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI H6205

Creates the extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper program for the recycling of packaging and paper products.

WI S0939

Creates the extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper program for the recycling of packaging and paper products.

WI H7910

Creates the extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper program for the recycling of packaging and paper products.

WI S2656

Creates the extended producer responsibility for packaging and paper program for the recycling of packaging and paper products.

WI SB958

Creating the water fund for our future, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB207

Creating a hazard mitigation revolving loan program, creating a Great Lakes erosion control revolving loan program, providing an exemption from emergency rule procedures, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB776

Repealing the dry cleaner environmental response program, creating the revitalize Wisconsin program, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

WI SB1008

Creating a baby bond program and baby bond fund, granting rule-making authority, and making an appropriation. (FE)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.