Photo by Washington State Standard
On Monday, March 17, the House Environment Committee heard testimony on SB 5284, which seeks to establish an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for product packaging recycling. Senator Liz Lovelett (D-40, Anacortes), the bill’s prime sponsor, testified in support of the legislation.
WR voiced concerns with the legislation, particularly the altered definition of “producer,” which now exempts beverage distributors while unfairly shifting costs onto store-brand owners. Retailers sell products, they do not manufacture them or control their packaging. WR continues to support EPR legislation that holds manufacturers, not retailers, responsible.
Additionally, WR raised strong concerns about the program’s cost to consumers. A recent report from California, which implemented a similar EPR program, estimated costs exceeding $36 billion. This prompted California’s Governor to request a redraft of the proposal. Washington should avoid imposing such significant financial burdens on consumers.
Before moving forward, a comprehensive needs assessment and cost-benefit analysis should be conducted. No other state has fully implemented an EPR program, and Washington should learn from their experiences before committing to an uncertain and potentially costly path.
Next Steps: SB 5284 must pass out of committee and be considered by both the fiscal committee on Appropriations and the entire House. The next legislative cutoff is April 2.
