Recycling: plastic packaging and products.
The legislation is set to impose significant changes on state law governing recycling practices. By mandating that products contain a minimum percentage of postconsumer recycled content, the bill is expected to stimulate demand for recycled materials and create incentives for manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices. Furthermore, the establishment of civil penalties for noncompliance aims to enforce adherence to these new standards. As such, local governmental agencies will potentially benefit from an increase in recycling rates and improved waste management systems funded through penalties collected from violations.
AB 973 also includes provisions for manufacturers to seek waivers from certain requirements under specific conditions, including technological feasibility or supply limitations. This flexibility is intended to help companies transition to these new requirements without compromising their ability to operate under existing regulatory frameworks. In summary, while the bill promotes increased recycling efforts and sustainability, its implementation and impact on manufacturers and local governments will be critical areas to monitor moving forward.
Assembly Bill 973, introduced by Assembly Member Hoover, aims to modernize California's approach to recycling plastic packaging and products by repealing and replacing existing provisions under the California Integrated Waste Management Act. The bill establishes new requirements for manufacturers regarding the use of postconsumer recycled content in their products, defining 'covered products' to include rigid plastic containers, rigid plastic products, and various types of film plastic. Manufacturers are required to begin registering and providing information about their products by July 1, 2026, with the goal of enhancing the state’s recycling capabilities and reducing reliance on virgin plastic materials.
Notably, the bill has been met with both support and criticism among stakeholders. Proponents argue that these regulations are essential for achieving state recycling goals and reducing environmental impacts associated with plastic waste. However, some industry representatives express concerns about the feasibility and economic burden of compliance, particularly regarding the potential penalties for noncompliance and the new reporting requirements. They suggest that the legislation could disproportionately affect smaller manufacturers who may struggle to meet the stringent standards.