The Architectural Paint Stewardship Act requires producers of architectural paint in New Jersey to either implement or participate in a statewide paint stewardship program designed to facilitate environmentally responsible disposal of post-consumer paint. Producers must submit a comprehensive stewardship plan to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection within one year of the bill's enactment, which should include convenient collection sites, coordination with local governments, and educational outreach. A paint stewardship assessment will be added to the sale price of architectural paint to fund the program, ensuring that costs are managed without placing a financial burden on local governments.

The bill also prohibits the sale of architectural paint by producers, distributors, and retailers unless they are part of an approved stewardship program, with penalties for non-compliance including civil administrative fines and potential public listing of violators by the Department of Environmental Protection. Additionally, the legislation provides antitrust liability protections for participating producers, with certain exceptions. The provisions of the bill will take effect immediately, while specific sections will become enforceable 18 months after enactment.