BILL REQ. #:  H-4637.1 

Read first time 01/25/10.   Referred to Committee on Ecology & Parks.

     AN ACT Relating to increasing the number of recycling receptacles in public places; adding a new section to chapter 70.93 RCW; and creating a new section.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature finds that recycling is an important sector of the nation's economy. The United States recycling information study found that recycling in the United States accounts for fifty-six thousand establishments that have over one million employees, with a total of thirty-seven billion dollars in payroll, all of which generate two hundred thirty-six billion dollars in revenue.
     The legislature further finds that the increased mobility of, and number of, Washington state residents calls for an increase in available recycling receptacles.
     The legislature further finds that there is a need to conserve energy and natural resources and the recycling of litter materials will serve to accomplish that conservation.
     The legislature further finds that the high quantity of litter discarded in this state creates a public health hazard, which could be alleviated by increased recycling.
     The legislature further finds that the presence of recycling receptacles prompts individuals to recycle items such as paper and plastic bottles rather than throw them away.
     Therefore, the purpose of this act is to promote public recycling and prevent unnecessary waste of recyclable materials.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   A new section is added to chapter 70.93 RCW to read as follows:
     In communities where there is an established curbside service and where recycling service is available to businesses, a recycling program must be provided in the same place and the same quantities wherever solid waste or litter receptacles are located, including the locations required in WAC 173-310-040 and 173-310-050. A recycling program includes provision of receptacles or reverse vending machines, and provisions to transport and recycle the collected materials. The recycling receptacles or reverse vending machines must be clearly marked and must be provided for aluminum, paper, and plastic.