Bill > A5009

This bill establishes the "Packaging and Paper Product Stewardship Act," which creates a comprehensive system for managing packaging and paper product waste in New Jersey. The legislation requires producers of packaging and paper products to form a producer responsibility organization (PRO) that will develop and implement a stewardship plan to reduce, reuse, and recycle these products. Key provisions include mandating a gradual reduction of single-use plastic packaging (aiming to reduce it to 50% of baseline levels within 10 years), ensuring that all packaging is recyclable or compostable by 2034, and achieving a 65% recycling rate by 2036. The bill establishes a Packaging and Paper Reduction and Recycling Fund to support infrastructure improvements, creates a Toxic Packaging Task Force to review packaging toxicity, and sets up an Office of Plastics and Packaging Management with an Inspector General to oversee enforcement. Producers will be required to pay fees based on their environmental impact, with lower fees for reusable, recyclable, or compostable products. The legislation also prohibits certain toxic substances in packaging, including PFAS, phthalates, and heavy metals, and provides exemptions for small producers and specific types of packaging like medical and pharmaceutical products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A5009