Bill > HB2178

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for managing preproduction plastic (plastic resin pellets, flakes, fibers, powders, and coloring materials) discharged by facilities in Virginia. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is required to create a program ensuring zero discharge or release of preproduction plastic into surface waters or publicly owned treatment works, with strict requirements for containment and cleanup. Facilities must implement continuous monitoring technologies, install plastic containment systems at storm drain locations, develop written maintenance programs, and adopt measures to prevent plastic spillage during storage and transfer, including using sealed containers, capture devices, and vacuum systems for cleanup. The bill mandates spill prevention procedures, technological updates, and best management practices to reduce plastic discharge. Facilities can potentially be exempted from requirements if they meet a "no exposure certification" but must undergo periodic inspections, including on-site and off-site assessments to verify compliance. The DEQ is granted additional authority to establish further regulations regarding preproduction plastic discharges into water or land, with the overarching goal of preventing environmental contamination from plastic materials during manufacturing and transportation processes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2178