Bill > H7896

This bill establishes a producer responsibility program for printed paper and packaging, aiming to reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and hold those responsible for product design accountable for their end-of-life management. The program, overseen by the Rhode Island resource recovery corporation, will classify packaging into designated classes and require "producers" – defined as entities that own or license a brand, make unbranded products, or sell packaging at retail without brand ownership – to register and take responsibility for waste reduction, collection, management, education, and reporting related to their products' packaging. The corporation will develop rules and regulations for these responsibilities, including setting recycling rate goals and litter reduction targets, and producers will be required to manage collected materials by prioritizing reuse, then recycling, and finally disposal. Small producers, defined by revenue or retail presence, may meet their obligations by paying an annual fee. The bill also mandates that collection infrastructure remain at least as convenient for residents as it was at the time of the act's passage.