Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB856

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/18/25
• Refer: 6/18/25

Caption

Providing for electronic waste recycling; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection; establishing the Advisory Committee on Electronic Waste Recycling; and imposing penalties.

Impact

The legislation imposes eco-fees on specific electronic devices, which retailers must charge at the point of sale and remit to a designated clearinghouse. The funds are intended to support the costs associated with the recycling programs established under the stewardship plan. This funding system aims to alleviate the local governments' financial burdens regarding electronic waste management and is also designed to enhance the efficiency of recycling programs through structured oversight. This transition would mark a significant enhancement over previous unregulated practices, potentially improving the recycling rates of electronic devices in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 856, known as the Electronic Waste Recycling Modernization Act, aims to enhance electronic waste management in Pennsylvania by establishing an organized system for recycling and disposal of electronic devices. The bill mandates the creation of an Advisory Committee on Electronic Waste Recycling, which will formulate a stewardship plan for responsible management, ensuring that manufacturers share the responsibility of recycling with clear obligations to set up collection points across the state. The initiative targets environmental sustainability by providing mechanisms for recycling and reducing pollutants associated with electronic waste, aligning with wider environmental objectives.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding Senate Bill 856 appears to be largely supportive among environmental advocacy groups, who view the legislation as a critical step towards more sustainable electronic waste management. However, there are concerns from manufacturers about the implications of the eco-fee structures and their responsibilities to ensure compliance with recycling mandates. Some stakeholders express reservations about the administrative burden that may arise from the new regulations, suggesting a need for clear guidance from the Department of Environmental Protection to maintain the balance between environmental goals and economic viability.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the design and implementation of the eco-fees, particularly how these fees will be determined and enforced, as well as the overall operational costs for manufacturers and retailers. Further debate is expected regarding the specifics of the collection convenience standards, which outline how widely available recycling collection sites must be, raising questions about feasibility in less densely populated areas. Ensuring equitable access while maintaining compliance costs manageable for manufacturers remains a key challenge as this legislation moves forward.