If enacted, SB79 is expected to significantly enhance the state's waste management practices by promoting composting as a viable solution for organic waste diversion. The emphasis on education and community participation through voluntary means could lead to improved environmental sustainability, reducing landfill waste, and encouraging environmentally friendly practices among residents and businesses. The bill's strategic focus on incentivization is also intended to motivate greater participation from stakeholders in developing a cohesive statewide composting strategy.
Summary
Senate Bill 79, known as the Statewide Composting Program Act, aims to create a working group that will assess the feasibility of implementing a voluntary and incentive-based composting program statewide in New Mexico. Sponsored by Senator Pete Campos, this bill allocates $65,000 from the general fund to the New Mexico Department of Agriculture for the development of findings and recommendations by a diverse group of stakeholders. This group will consist of representatives from state agencies, local governments, agriculture communities, and various organizations to ensure a comprehensive approach to the program's design and execution.
Contention
While the bill fosters collaboration and aims for broad input from various sectors, potential contention may arise regarding the funding and administrative responsibilities involved. Critics may argue that the fiscal allocation is insufficient for a comprehensive statewide program, and there could be differing opinions on the most effective methods of ensuring participation from all communities. Additionally, stakeholders might have varying perspectives on how to balance the incentive structures, making discussions around implementation and governance crucial to the program's success.