Bill > HB3018

This bill addresses food waste management and labeling in Oregon by establishing comprehensive requirements for food-related businesses and standardizing food date labels. The bill defines "covered entities" as businesses that cook, process, or sell food, mandating that those generating over 1,000 pounds of food waste weekly must recover, source-separate, and arrange proper collection and composting of their food waste. The Department of Environmental Quality will create an educational program to help businesses understand and implement these requirements, and local governments must provide food waste collection services by June 30, 2028. Additionally, the bill introduces uniform food labeling standards, requiring food establishments to use specific terms like "BEST if Used by" for quality dates and "USE by" for safety dates, which will become operative on July 1, 2027. State agencies are also directed to prioritize procuring compost made from diverse feedstocks, including food waste. The bill provides some flexibility through potential waivers for entities facing significant challenges in compliance and excludes businesses located more than 75 miles from a composting facility. The legislation aims to reduce food waste, improve waste management practices, and provide clearer consumer guidance on food product dating.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3018