SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5187

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.

Sponsors: Senators Kuderer, Wellman, Cleveland, Saldaña, Nguyen and Wilson, C..

Brief Summary of Bill

Allows public schools to offer students the opportunity to compost their food waste and to recycle.
Permits the state to provide free pickup of compost and provide supplies such as bins and compost bags.

Background: Recycling and composting are regulated by local governments. Each county and city is required to make a comprehensive solid waste management plan including, among other things, handling and proper preparation of materials for reuse or recycling and organic materials for composting or anaerobic digestion.

Summary of Bill: All public schools may offer students the opportunity to compost their food waste and the opportunity to recycle.

School districts may provide on-site composting or contract with the local waste management company. The state may provide free compost pickup and provide supplies such as bins and compost bags for all public schools that need it.

Creates Committee/Commission/Task Force that includes Legislative members: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: Encouraging schools to compost is a step in the right direction. This bill provides an opportunity for more schools and students to participate in composting and recycling programs. These programs will reduce the amount of food waste that ends up in garbage cans and in landfills. These programs will help build life-long habits and will raise a more environmentally conscious generation. Composting benefits the environment such as by reducing methane production. These programs can help reduce costs and can turn waste into valuable resources.

Persons Testifying: PRO: Senator Patty Kuderer, Prime Sponsor; Anna Captain, Lake Washington High School; Gurneen Gill, Lake Washington High School; Paul Hedreen, Lake Washington High School.