Senate Bill 269, known as the "Tennessee Waste to Jobs Act," addresses the critical issue of packaging waste in Tennessee, which currently makes up nearly one-third of solid municipal waste, with only twelve percent being recycled. The bill aims to create jobs and establish sustainable funding for local recycling systems while engaging packaging producers in reducing and reusing materials. It introduces a producer responsibility program advisory board, consisting of 20 members from diverse backgrounds, to oversee these initiatives. The commissioner of environment and conservation will appoint the board members, with initial appointments expected by July 1, 2026.

The legislation outlines the responsibilities of producers and Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) in enhancing recycling, composting, and reuse of materials. By July 1, 2026, producers must establish a PRO and submit an application detailing their stewardship plans. The bill also mandates a needs assessment process to evaluate current recycling services and requires PROs to set performance goals and report annually on their progress. Additionally, it establishes a framework for reimbursement rates for service providers and penalties for non-compliance, while allowing local governments to opt into the producer responsibility plans. The bill is set to take effect upon becoming law, with full implementation scheduled for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-29-249(a), 4-29-249