The bill mandates that the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) regulate scrap metal facilities as recycling facilities, introducing a new definition for "scrap metal" that includes various ferrous and non-ferrous metal objects intended for recycling. It defines "scrap metal facility" as any commercial industrial facility that processes scrap metal for recycling, resale, or reuse, effectively replacing the previous term "scrap processing facility." The bill also removes prior definitions related to scrap processing and integrates the new definitions into the existing legal framework. Additionally, it updates regulations concerning lead acid batteries, ensuring they are returned to designated facilities for recycling rather than disposed of as solid waste.

The legislation requires all scrap metal facilities to register with the DEP within one year of the bill's effective date, paying a registration fee of $700, with annual renewals. The DEP will establish regulatory and operational requirements based on the collected information, particularly for facilities operating shredders to mitigate fire risks and environmental impacts. The bill outlines penalties for non-compliance, treating violations as breaches of the Solid Waste Management Act, and grants the DEP inspection authority to ensure adherence. It also mandates the development of a program to regulate these facilities as recycling centers within 18 months and requests necessary funding for implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-99.12, 13:1E-199, 13:1E-200, 13:1E-201, 13:1E-202, 13:1E-203, 13:1E-207, 13:1E-96.5