Washington state has begun rulemaking for the Recycling Reform Act, which creates an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for packaging and paper products. Once fully implemented, the program will require producers to help fund and manage the recycling system for covered materials, including many types of packaging and paper products used in retail.
This rulemaking process will determine many details retailers will need to understand, including compliance obligations, reporting requirements, timelines, definitions, and how responsibility is assigned across the supply chain. Because of that, retailer input is especially important.
The first round of feedback on the initial draft rule language was due June 24, but this will not be the only opportunity to engage. WR has a seat on the Recycling Reform Act Rulemaking Committee representing retail producers and will continue participating throughout the process.
The Washington Retail Association (WR) will remain focused on advocating for rules that are clear, workable, and reflect proportional responsibility for retailers, particularly around private label products, packaging, distribution, reporting, administrative burden, and implementation costs.
WR’s Environment & Sustainability Member Workgroup will also continue reviewing this and other environmental policy issues to provide direct feedback that helps inform WR’s advocacy. Retailers interested in joining the workgroup and participating in these discussions should reach out to Crystal Leatherman, Director of Policy & Government Affairs at [email protected] or 360-884-0771.
Retailers are also encouraged to follow the Department of Ecology’s rulemaking process and sign up for updates through the rulemaking website.
