H.B. No. 4839 aims to enhance recycling efforts in Texas by establishing a comprehensive recycling market development program, which includes the creation of the Texas Recycling Fund to support various recycling initiatives such as grants and loans for businesses. The program administrator will conduct research, coordinate initiatives, and make policy recommendations to improve recycling infrastructure and technology. The bill also mandates the development of a public education program to raise awareness about the economic benefits of recycling and the importance of reducing contamination in recyclable materials.

Key amendments to the Health and Safety Code include the establishment of a recycling market advisory council to guide program implementation and the requirement for the program administrator to produce a detailed plan identifying barriers to recycling, estimating economic benefits, and recommending methods to increase the use of recyclable materials. The bill specifies that grants awarded under the program cannot exceed 50 percent of the actual eligible costs incurred by the recipient and outlines eligibility criteria for entities seeking grants or loans. The commission will provide administrative support and adopt necessary rules for implementation, with the bill taking effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 361.0152 (Health and Safety Code 361)
House Committee Report: Health and Safety Code 361.0152 (Health and Safety Code 361)