The bill seeks to improve waste management systems in Washington State, with a particular emphasis on organic materials. It establishes new requirements for the collection and management of organic waste, including the implementation of color-coded containers by January 1, 2028, to minimize contamination. Jurisdictions are mandated to provide year-round source-separated organic solid waste collection services to single-family residents and certain nonresidential customers starting April 1, 2027. The legislation also introduces an Organic Grant Program to support compliance with these requirements, with specific eligibility criteria for grant recipients and a prohibition on funding for non-compliant entities. Additionally, the bill outlines obligations for building owners to provide adequate space for organic waste collection and emphasizes the importance of educational resources in schools to support food waste reduction initiatives.

Moreover, the bill enhances the farm-to-school program by establishing policies that facilitate the procurement of locally grown food by schools, including provisions for marketing Washington-grown food and allowing schools to purchase food that may otherwise go to waste. It mandates collaboration between the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Department of Agriculture to promote regional market programs and provide technical assistance to school districts. The bill also includes provisions for grants aimed at reducing high school dropout rates through farm engagement initiatives targeting low-income youth. Notably, it includes a clause that nullifies its effectiveness if specific funding is not appropriated by June 30, 2025, and ensures that the remainder of the act remains enforceable if any part is deemed invalid.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.207.050, 70A.205.540, 70A.205.545, 15.64.060, 28A.235.180
Substitute Bill: 70A.207.050, 70A.205.540, 70A.205.545, 15.64.060, 28A.235.180
Second Substitute: 70A.207.050, 70A.205.540, 70A.205.545, 15.64.060, 28A.235.180
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.207.050, 70A.205.540, 70A.205.545, 15.64.060, 28A.235.180
Session Law: 70A.207.050, 70A.205.540, 70A.205.545, 15.64.060, 28A.235.180