Virginia House Bill HJR35

Virginia 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Litter tax; Department of Taxation, et al., to study tax policy options for reforming.

Impact

The study mandated by HJR35 is meant to analyze various solid waste and recycling streams across the Commonwealth. This includes assessing current disposal methods, costs, and revenues related to waste management. An essential aspect of the study involves investigating market conditions, opportunities for increasing recycling, and identifying barriers that limit the effective processing of recyclables. Important also is the focus on equitable outcomes for underserved populations which might foster job growth in the recycling sector and improve overall recycling efficiency.

Summary

HJR35 calls for a comprehensive study of Virginia's litter tax policy and its effectiveness in promoting recycling, reducing landfill waste, and advancing environmental stewardship. The resolution recognizes that the existing litter tax has been a benefit for Virginians but acknowledges that the tax system requires modernization in light of the dramatic increase in plastic production and low revenue generation compared to other states utilizing similar systems. The bill aims to facilitate a full review of the current application and utilization of the litter tax to ensure it meets contemporary environmental challenges and economic needs.

Contention

Notably, the bill addresses the potential of tying the litter tax to the Consumer Price Index, which could provide a mechanism for regular updates to the tax in line with inflation. Additionally, the exploration of a new 'cigarette litter abatement fee' to counteract the environmental impacts associated with cigarette waste indicates a specific area of focus that may provoke discussion. By creating exemptions for small businesses, the bill acknowledges the financial impact of taxes on smaller economic players, which could both alleviate burdens on those entities and stimulate compliance with the litter tax framework.