Bill > A4902

This bill directs the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct a comprehensive statewide recycling needs assessment for packaging products, with the goal of evaluating current recycling systems, infrastructure, and opportunities for improvement. The bill establishes a Statewide Recycling Needs Assessment Advisory Council composed of representatives from various sectors including material recovery facilities, haulers, local governments, retailers, environmental organizations, and manufacturers. The assessment will examine multiple aspects of packaging recycling, such as collection systems, processing capacity, recycling and composting rates, current costs, infrastructure needs, market conditions, and environmental justice considerations. A consultant will be selected to perform the study by January 15, 2026, with a draft assessment due by December 31, 2026, and a final report to be submitted to the Governor and Legislature by May 1, 2027. The bill appropriates $500,000 to fund the assessment and creates exemptions for certain regulated packaging types, such as medical, agricultural, and pharmaceutical products. The advisory council will provide guidance on the assessment, review packaging legislation from other states, and make recommendations for potential producer responsibility programs. The entire initiative will expire 30 days after the final report is submitted.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A4902