The bill aims to improve solid waste management in Washington State by establishing extended producer responsibility (EPR) programs for consumer packaging and paper products. It requires producers to engage in the management of materials from design to end-of-life, ensuring responsible planning and funding to minimize environmental impacts. Key definitions are introduced, including "covered material" and "producer," while maintaining the roles of local governments and the utilities and transportation commission. Producers must register with producer responsibility organizations (PROs) by January 1, 2026, and implement statewide programs focusing on waste reduction, recycling, and reuse. The bill also mandates annual reporting and independent reviews to assess the effectiveness of these programs.

Additionally, the legislation emphasizes equity by establishing an advisory council that includes diverse stakeholders and an equity subcommittee to address the needs of socially vulnerable populations. It requires comprehensive needs assessments to evaluate access to recycling services and mandates that service providers register and report on their operations. The bill also introduces a deposit return system for beverage containers, allowing for temporary exclusions of certain products from recycling requirements for public health reasons. Furthermore, it sets guidelines for solid waste management plans, emphasizing contamination reduction and outreach efforts, while ensuring that new systems align with federal regulations. Overall, the bill seeks to create a more sustainable and equitable framework for managing covered materials in Washington State.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185
Substitute Bill: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 70A.245.100
Second Substitute: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 70A.245.100
Engrossed Second Substitute: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 70A.245.100
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 70A.245.100
Session Law: 70A.205.045, 70A.205.500, 81.77.030, 81.77.160, 81.77.185, 70A.245.100