The bill seeks to improve solid waste management in Washington State by implementing extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for packaging and paper products. It addresses the declining waste recovery rates and mandates that producers take accountability for their products throughout their lifecycle, from design to end-of-life management. Key provisions include the establishment of producer responsibility organizations (PROs) that producers must join or register as by October 1, 2024, and the requirement for these organizations to submit annual plans and reports detailing their recycling and waste management strategies. The bill emphasizes the importance of increasing postconsumer recycled content in products, ensuring packaging is reusable or recyclable, and making curbside recycling accessible, particularly in rural and multifamily areas.

Additionally, the legislation introduces new regulations regarding post-consumer recycled content (PCRC) for various plastic products, setting specific minimum percentages that producers must meet by designated deadlines. It establishes a deposit return system for qualifying beverage containers, requiring distributors to participate in a distributor responsibility organization (DRO) and mandating convenient drop-off locations for consumers. The bill also includes provisions for penalties for non-compliance, transparency in labeling, and the establishment of a Recycling Revenue Augmentation Fund to support local recycling programs. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance recycling efforts, reduce waste, and promote sustainable practices in Washington State's solid waste management system.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.245.010, 70A.245.020, 70A.245.030, 70A.245.040, 70A.245.100, 70A.245.120, 70A.245.060, 70A.205.005, 70A.205.010, 70A.205.045, 81.77.030, 81.77.040, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 43.21B.110, 43.21B.300, 69.50.342, 69.50.345
Substitute Bill: 70A.245.010, 70A.245.020, 70A.245.030, 70A.245.040, 70A.245.100, 70A.245.120, 70A.245.060, 70A.205.005, 70A.205.010, 70A.205.045, 81.77.030, 81.77.040, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 43.21B.110, 43.21B.300, 70A.245.110
Second Substitute: 70A.245.010, 70A.245.020, 70A.245.030, 70A.245.040, 70A.245.100, 70A.245.120, 70A.245.060, 82.19.050, 70A.205.005, 70A.205.010, 70A.205.045, 81.77.030, 81.77.040, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 43.21B.110, 43.21B.300, 70A.245.110