The bill amends the existing Used Tire Recycling and Accountability Act, renaming it the Tire Management and Recycling Act, with the goal of improving public health and environmental quality through enhanced standards for the handling of recyclable, waste, and used tires. Key changes include the repeal of the Used Tire Recycling Fund and the establishment of the Waste Tire Abatement Fund, which will be financed through penalties, interest earnings, and federal funds. The new act introduces definitions such as "abatement" and "beneficial use," clarifying the management of used tires and expanding their potential applications. It also mandates the creation of a uniform used tire manifest system to improve tracking and management of tire disposal and recycling processes.

Additionally, the bill sets new requirements for tire retailers and manufacturers, including record-keeping obligations and a new fee structure, replacing the previous rim removal fee with a $1.50 tire retailer fee. It outlines responsibilities for individuals importing used tires and allows for the use of Waste Tire Abatement Fund resources for abatement projects when responsible parties cannot be located. The bill also establishes tire collection centers in each county, mandates business plans for used tire programs, and introduces licensing requirements for tire transporters. Furthermore, it clarifies liability for waste tire abatement costs and provides immunity under certain conditions, while ensuring compliance and accountability through the Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecology Commission's oversight.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB606 V2 - 4-3-2025 02:05 PM: 8-6-1002(b), 19-5-1148, 04-03-2025, 8-9-404, 8-9-401, 19-6-301, 8-9-404(a), 8-9-404(d), 19-5-203, 8-9-404(b), 8-9-404(c)
Old version SB606 Original - 4-1-2025 05:30 PM: 8-6-1002(b), 19-5-1148, 8-9-404, 8-9-401, 19-6-301, 8-9-404(a), 8-9-404(d), 19-5-203, 8-9-404(b), 8-9-404(c)
SB 606: 8-6-1002(b), 19-5-1148, 8-9-404, 8-9-401, 19-6-301, 8-9-404(a), 8-9-404(d), 19-5-203, 8-9-404(b), 8-9-404(c)