Substitute House Bill No. 6917 seeks to enhance the management of solid waste in the state by revising the fee structure and regulations for solid waste processing facilities. The bill introduces a new quarterly fee of $1.50 per ton for solid waste processed at waste conversion facilities, transfer stations, and volume reduction plants, expanding the previous fee structure that only applied to resource recovery facilities. This change replaces the earlier provisions that had varying rates based on the operational date of the facility. Additionally, the bill exempts municipal facilities and certain waste types from these fees, modifies penalties for late payments, and clarifies reimbursement obligations for municipalities regarding solid waste service fees.

The legislation also establishes a Sustainable Materials Management Account, funded by the new assessments, to support environmental initiatives aimed at reducing solid waste generation. It mandates a report from the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection by January 15, 2027, to evaluate the feasibility of an extended producer responsibility program for consumer packaging, analyzing costs, trends, and recycling infrastructure. The bill allows municipalities to utilize funds from the state’s nips surcharge for hiring waste coordinators and purchasing equipment for litter and solid waste management. The effective date for the solid waste fee provisions is set for July 1, 2025, while other sections will take effect upon passage. Overall, the bill aims to improve solid waste management and sustainability efforts in the state.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute Change of Reference:
APP Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 884: