This bill establishes a stewardship program in Minnesota for the management of circuit boards, batteries, and electrical products, with a focus on enhancing environmental protection and waste management. It prohibits the use of mercury in batteries and authorizes rulemaking to implement the program. Key amendments to the Minnesota Statutes include the creation of a Covered Products Reimbursement Board, which will recommend reimbursement rates for collectors of covered products. The bill also introduces new definitions and requirements for producers, collectors, and stewardship organizations, outlining their responsibilities in the collection, processing, and disposal of covered products. The effective date for certain provisions is set for January 1, 2027, while others take effect immediately.

Additionally, the bill mandates that producers contract with a single stewardship organization to submit a comprehensive stewardship plan by October 1, 2026, which must include details on collection sites and compliance methods. It establishes a framework for the approval and implementation of these plans, requiring the commissioner to review and provide written notice of approval or rejection. The bill also emphasizes compliance with stewardship plans and reimbursement rates, ensuring that all costs are covered by producers, and introduces provisions for annual fees to fund the program. Furthermore, it outlines strict disposal prohibitions for covered products and establishes responsibilities for manufacturers regarding battery disposal and recycling, aiming to promote environmentally sound management and reduce hazardous waste.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 115.071, 115A.121, 115A.554, 116.92, 115A.9157