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 the environmentally responsible disposal of post-consumer paint. Producers must develop and submit a comprehensive stewardship plan to the Commissioner of Environmental Protection within one year of the bill's enactment. This plan should ensure convenient collection of leftover paint, minimize public sector involvement, and comply with federal waste management guidelines. It must also include educational outreach to inform consumers about disposal options and costs, which will be incorporated into the paint's purchase price.

The bill establishes a paint stewardship assessment that producers must add to the sale price of architectural paint to fund the stewardship program. It prohibits the sale of architectural paint by producers, distributors, or retailers unless they are part of an approved stewardship plan. Violations can lead to penalties, including written warnings for first offenses and fines for subsequent violations. The Department of Environmental Protection is responsible for overseeing the program's implementation, approving stewardship plans, and enforcing compliance through civil actions and administrative penalties. Additionally, the bill provides antitrust liability protections for participating producers, with specific exceptions regarding pricing agreements and production restrictions.