Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research		 BILL
ANALYSIS
Select Committee on Environmental Health

HB 2423

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Concerning the composting and recycling of certain food service packaging.

Sponsors: Representative Chase.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • Prohibits take-out food providers from distributing single-use food service packaging unless it is compostable or recyclable.
  • Requires take-out food providers to recover 25 percent of packaging for composting or recycling.
  • Requires take-out food providers to provide containers to collect compostable or recyclable packaging.

Hearing Date: 1/16/08

Staff: Ashley Pedersen (786-7303).

Background:

The Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control Act (WRRMLCA), or RCW 70.93, is the primary law that guides and directs litter programs in Washington State. In the WRRMLCA, the legislature recognized that there is a fundamental need for a healthful, clean, and beautiful environment. The proliferation and accumulation of litter discarded throughout this state constitutes a public health hazard. Effective litter control and recovery and recycling of litter materials will conserve energy and natural resources. There must be effective programs and systems to accomplish waste reduction and all components of recycling. If a person is convicted of a violation of The WRRMLCA, for which no penalty is specially provided, they shall be fined not more than $50 for each such violation.

Summary of Bill:

After July 1, 2010, take-out food providers may only distribute compostable or recyclable single-use food service packaging. In addition, take-out food providers with seating for more than 20 persons must provide receptacles for collection of compostable or recyclable packaging.

Packaging is "compostable" or "recyclable" if it is accepted in the curbside collection program of least 60 percent of the households in the state or in at least 60 percent of the households in the city or unincorporated county in which the take-out provider is located.

After July 1, 2012, take-out food providers must recover 25 percent of packaging they have distributed for composting or recycling. This requirement can be met by recovering 25 percent of their packaging at a statewide level or in the city or unincorporated county in which the take-out provider is located.

Each calendar day in which the take-out food provider operates in violation of these provisions will constitute a new violation and may be subject to penalties under the Waste Reduction, Recycling, and Model Litter Control Act.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 10, 2008.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.