The bill amends Florida's waste management laws by introducing a new definition for "auxiliary container," which encompasses reusable and single-use bags, cups, bottles, and other packaging materials. It preempts local governments from regulating these containers, granting the state exclusive authority to establish rules, with exceptions for glass containers on public beaches and regulations in state parks. Additionally, the bill removes outdated requirements for the Department of Environmental Protection to review and update a report on retail bags, streamlining the regulatory framework.

Moreover, the bill imposes restrictions on the issuance of construction permits for new solid waste disposal facilities that utilize ash-producing incinerators or waste-to-energy facilities located within a one-mile radius of schools or residential areas. It updates the definition of construction and demolition debris, allowing local governments to charge varying disposal fees based on the characteristics of recyclable materials in the waste. The bill also enhances the state solid waste management program by providing planning guidelines and technical assistance to help local governments meet revised recycling goals, with biennial evaluations and reports to legislative leaders on progress. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1822 Filed: 403.7033, 403.707
S 1822 c1: 403.7033, 403.7049
S 1822 c2: 403.7033, 403.7049