The bill amends RCW 70A.200.140 to ensure that funds from the litter tax are specifically allocated for litter collection and related environmental programs. It establishes the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account, detailing how the funds will be distributed: 40% to the Department of Ecology for various litter control programs, 20% for local government funding for waste reduction and recycling activities, and another 40% for additional support and technical assistance for recycling and composting efforts. The bill also specifies that no more than 10% of the appropriated funds can be reserved for capital needs, such as purchasing vehicles for litter collection.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new expiration date for the provisions, set for June 30, 2029. It modifies existing language to clarify funding allocations, including ensuring that local governments can apply 100% of their funding towards program goals and that grant recipients must match 25% of the grant funding. The bill emphasizes the importance of prioritizing funds for recycling, composting, and litter control programs, particularly for products taxed under chapter 82.19 RCW.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.200.140