Substitute House Bill No. 5157 amends the existing tire stewardship program established by a 2023 law, which required tire producers to join a stewardship organization and submit plans for managing discarded tires by January 1, 2025. The new bill extends the deadline for tire retailers to join a stewardship organization from a voluntary basis to a mandatory requirement, with a new deadline set for July 1, 2027. This change is reflected in the addition of subsection (s) to Section 22a-905i of the general statutes, which states that "not later than July 1, 2027, each retailer shall join a tire stewardship organization."

The bill does not impose any additional costs on the state or municipalities and is designed to enhance the management of discarded tires through a statewide collection system. The program aims to ensure free public access to tire drop-off locations, suitable storage for tires, public education about the program, and market development for recycling efforts. The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) will oversee the program, with enforcement powers granted to the DEEP commissioner and the Attorney General. The bill is effective upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 88: