Bill > S647

This bill establishes a comprehensive postconsumer paint stewardship program in Massachusetts, requiring paint manufacturers to create and implement a plan for collecting, recycling, and responsibly disposing of architectural paint. The program mandates that manufacturers or their representative nonprofit organizations submit a detailed plan to the Department of Environmental Protection that ensures convenient paint collection sites are available within 15 miles for at least 90% of Massachusetts residents, with at least one collection site per 50,000 residents in urban areas. Manufacturers must include a fee in the purchase price of architectural paint to cover program costs, and the plan must prioritize paint reuse and recycling, with education and outreach efforts to inform consumers about collection opportunities. The bill requires an independent financial audit to verify that the added fee does not exceed program operation costs, and mandates annual reporting on collection volumes, processing methods, and program expenses. Paint retailers cannot charge additional disposal fees, and household waste generators and very small quantity generators are authorized to transport paint to these collection sites. The first plan must be submitted by July 1, 2024, with implementation within six months of approval, and the first annual report is due by September 1, 2026, ultimately aiming to reduce paint waste and promote environmentally sound management practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S647