Bill > S3302

This bill mandates that large food waste generators, defined as businesses producing at least 52 tons of food waste annually and located within 35 miles of an authorized recycling facility, must separate and recycle their food waste starting January 1, 2020, with a stricter requirement for those generating 104 tons or more annually starting January 1, 2017. Exemptions are provided if no authorized recycling facility is within range or will accept the waste, or if the generator performs enclosed on-site composting or anaerobic digestion, or sends waste to a facility that handles the separation and recycling. The bill also amends the definition of "Class I renewable energy" to include methane gas from composting or anaerobic digestion facilities that convert food waste or other organic waste into energy, alongside existing sources like solar, wind, and landfill methane. Penalties for violations are outlined, and the Department of Environmental Protection is required to establish rules and guidelines for implementation, including record-keeping, auditing procedures, and a list of recyclable food waste products.