Assembly Bill 772 establishes a comprehensive packaging reduction and recycling program in Wisconsin, to be administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The bill mandates DNR to contract with a nonprofit organization, referred to as a packaging reduction organization (PRO), which will implement a producer responsibility program aimed at reducing packaging waste. Producers will be required to register with the PRO and comply with program requirements, including annual reporting of packaging materials sold and achieving specified recycling rates, ultimately targeting 70% recycling within 12 years. The bill also prohibits the use of certain toxic materials in packaging and outlines the responsibilities of the PRO, which include collecting data, managing funds, and providing technical support to producers.

Additionally, the bill creates new statutory sections to facilitate the program, including provisions for funding through the environmental fund and establishing penalties for noncompliance, which can reach up to $100,000 per day per violation. DNR is tasked with promulgating rules to manage the program, including setting fees for producers based on the type of packaging material. The bill emphasizes the importance of conducting regular assessments to identify barriers and opportunities for improving packaging reduction and recycling efforts, ensuring ongoing evaluation and adaptation of the program.