The bill, known as General Assembly Committee Bill No. 5017, aims to enhance participation in the tire stewardship program by mandating that tire retailers join a tire stewardship organization. The current law allows retailers to participate voluntarily, but the new language stipulates that by January 1, 2026, all retailers must participate in such organizations. Additionally, the bill requires that plans submitted by these organizations must identify both producers and retailers involved in the program, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tire management.

Furthermore, the bill introduces liability protections for producers, retailers, and tire stewardship organizations against antitrust claims when acting under the provisions of the tire stewardship program. It also establishes that any producer or retailer failing to participate in the program will be prohibited from supplying tires in the state, reinforcing the importance of compliance with the stewardship initiative. The overall goal of the bill is to create a more structured and effective tire recycling and management system in the state.