Bill > A05248

This bill establishes the "New York state waste recycling and reduction act", which requires commercial buildings in New York to implement a comprehensive recycling program for paper products and single-use plastic products. The bill defines a commercial building as any structure used for business, professional services, or manufacturing, and provides a detailed list of single-use plastic products that must be recycled, including plastic bags, straws, cutlery, styrofoam containers, and other disposable plastic items. Commercial property owners and managers must establish collection systems for these materials, which can be handled through private waste collectors, on-site transportation, or on-site processing if approved by the department. Additionally, they must provide educational resources and training to help workers and tenants understand and implement effective recycling procedures. The bill allows local governments to adopt even stricter recycling requirements and gives the state environmental department authority to create specific rules and regulations for implementation. The new recycling requirements will take effect 180 days after the bill becomes law, providing businesses time to develop and implement their recycling systems.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5248