Bill > SB016

This bill, titled the "Plastic Pellet-Free Waters Act," aims to prevent plastic pollution by prohibiting the discharge of preproduction plastic materials, which are defined as raw or primary state plastic pellets, flakes, fibers, or powders, including those made from virgin or recycled sources, before they are incorporated into a finished product. The bill clarifies that this prohibition applies to facilities that make, use, package, or transport these materials and defines "discharge" as introducing them into state waters, wastewater, storm water runoff, or other runoff, as well as through land application without proper permits. Importantly, domestic wastewater treatment works are excluded from this definition of a "facility," and the bill also states that the state division responsible for environmental protection will not issue permits for the discharge of these preproduction plastic materials. The legislative intent behind this act is to address the environmental harm caused by these materials, particularly to aquatic life and communities near industrial areas, and it is set to take effect on August 12, 2027, with provisions for potential public approval if a referendum petition is filed.