The bill establishes a littering solutions task force convened by the Department of Ecology to develop policy recommendations aimed at reducing litter in Washington. The task force will include representatives from various state departments and associations related to solid waste management, retail, hospitality, and more. It is tasked with considering findings from a 2022 statewide litter study and identifying strategies to reduce litter at public sites and the most commonly littered items. The Department of Ecology is required to provide a status update by January 15, 2027, and a final report with recommendations by November 15, 2027.

Additionally, the bill amends existing carryout bag regulations under RCW 70A.530.020. It specifies that starting January 1, 2028, retail establishments will not be allowed to provide reusable carryout bags made of film plastic that are less than four mils thick unless the legislature amends the section based on the task force's recommendations. The bill also introduces a new requirement for retail establishments to collect a pass-through charge for compliant paper and reusable carryout bags, with specific penalties for non-compliance. Furthermore, it clarifies the definitions and requirements for compliant paper and reusable carryout bags, including the need for a minimum percentage of postconsumer recycled content.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 70A.530.020