The bill H.204 establishes an extended producer responsibility program for the collection and recycling of waste motor vehicle tires in Vermont by introducing a new Chapter 169 to the Vermont Statutes Annotated. It defines key terms such as "manufacturer," "waste tire," and "waste tire stewardship organization," and outlines the responsibilities of manufacturers and stewardship organizations. These include implementing an approved waste tire stewardship plan by January 1, 2027, which must provide for free collection of waste tires, convenient collection locations, and management of legacy waste tire piles. Manufacturers are prohibited from selling tires unless they are part of an approved stewardship plan and have paid the required fees.

The bill also mandates that manufacturers and stewardship organizations cannot impose costs on retailers or municipalities for transportation or recycling, and they must provide necessary equipment for collection points. It establishes penalties for failing to meet collection rate goals and allows for reimbursement for collecting unlisted waste tires. Civil actions against manufacturers are limited to those not adhering to stewardship plans, and the bill ensures confidentiality of submitted data while providing antitrust immunity for compliance actions. An annual fee for manufacturers and stewardship organizations is also introduced, along with penalties for improper disposal of waste tires. The act will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-8003, 10-8503, 24-2201