This bill amends Minnesota Statutes related to solid waste management by exempting paper products from the extended producer responsibility program. Key changes include the removal of paper products from the definition of "covered material" and the introduction of new definitions for "exempt materials" and "producer." As a result, producers are no longer responsible for compliance with waste management requirements for paper products, but they must still implement and finance a statewide program aimed at reducing the environmental and human health impacts of the remaining covered materials. The bill also requires producers to conduct a needs assessment focusing on waste reduction, recycling, and composting rates, while the commissioner will establish statewide requirements for these practices.

Additionally, the bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 115A.1454, subdivision 1, to set new requirements for producer responsibility organizations regarding the collection of annual fees from member producers, which will vary based on the amount of covered materials introduced. The bill emphasizes the importance of incentivizing environmentally friendly practices, discouraging harmful materials, and ensuring that generated revenue covers operational costs. An effective date clause is included, stating that the new provisions will take effect the day following final enactment, reinforcing the state's commitment to environmental sustainability and public health.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 115A.1441, 115A.1442, 115A.1450, 115A.1451, 115A.1454