CDRA February Legislative Committee Meeting

Boyd Jones, the new Legislative Committee Chair, introduced himself and outlined the committee’s mission to work closely with the Executive Director and Executive Committee on legislative matters affecting association members. He also introduced the new vice chairs, Michaela Doelman and Rody Taylor, and mentioned that the committee keeps members informed of crucial recycling and environmental issues at various levels of government. The meeting began with brief introductions and some technical difficulties with Zoom, which were eventually resolved.

Battery Regulation Standards Update

Boyd presented updates on legislative topics affecting the industry, including the EPA’s work on updating universal waste standards for lithium batteries and the expansion of battery extended producer responsibility laws. He highlighted the Safe Battery Collection and Recovery Act in Florida and discussed the need for consistent standards across states. Amy suggested working with ASTM to develop international standards for lithium-ion battery handling, which could streamline regulations across different states.

Unified Waste Standards and Legislation

Boyd discussed the importance of having a unified voice and uniform language across states regarding waste standards, particularly with the EPA’s Universal Waste Standard. He mentioned two active pieces of legislation in different states and highlighted a federal bill in the House, the Battery Fire Prevention Act, which includes tax credits for battery detecting devices. The group also discussed a fast-track permitting initiative in Pittsburgh that ties waste diversion plans to permit review, with ongoing talks with the new mayor.

C&D Recycling Ordinance Progress Update

Travis discussed RRS’s work with Broward County, Florida, on developing a mandatory C&D recycling ordinance, which includes a draft available for public review and feedback. He highlighted the debate over waste diversion thresholds and the requirement for private C&D facilities to obtain RCI certification, noting the lack of certified facilities in Florida. Travis also mentioned RRS’s involvement in updating Colorado’s statewide solid waste management plan, which includes a C&D focus section expected for public comment soon.

New Solid Waste Authority Formation

The discussion focused on a new solid waste authority forming in 31 communities, with a formal vote scheduled for August to approve the authority to enact ordinances. It was explained that while the county would adopt and implement the ordinance, cities would reciprocate requirements through an interlocal agreement, with private sector operators presenting to legislative decision makers. The perspective from Washington state was shared, detailing that residential recycling requirements were applied to C&D recycling, leading to enforcement challenges and inconsistencies, and ongoing efforts to propose state requirements for C&D diversion.

C&D Waste Recycling Trends

The meeting discussed the growing interest in construction and demolition (C&D) waste recycling, noting a significant increase in demand over the past two years. San Francisco’s experience with C&D waste recycling was shared, explaining their shift from self-reported recovery rates to third-party verification, which has led to more accurate and competitive recycling practices. A related issue was raised regarding new state-level packaging laws, expressing concern about how these regulations might affect C&D waste management, particularly for companies that manufacture construction materials.

Legislative Playbook and Events Update

The committee discussed packaging regulations across different states and introduced a new project to create a CDRA Legislators Playbook, which will provide guidance on building relationships with legislators. Insights were shared about packaging reporting requirements, while Boyd announced the need for volunteers to help develop the playbook. The group also addressed Bill Track 50, encouraging committee members to sign up for the legislative tracking tool, and discussed upcoming events including a day on the Hill in D.C., the Shingle Recycling Forum in Raleigh, and the annual conference in Bonita Springs.

Bill Track 50 Legislative Overview

The meeting focused on introducing Bill Track 50, a legislative tracking tool available for free to CDRA members, and its features for monitoring bills and legislative actions. Boyd demonstrated the tool’s capabilities, including bill tracking, legislator information, and state statistics. The group discussed regional policy updates, including Hawaii, where there have been talks about proposals for landfill elimination and recycling programs for shingles and gypsum. It was advised on setting realistic recycling targets for Hawaii, suggesting starting with lower percentages and allowing time for improvement. The conversation ended with utilizing CDRA resources, such as white papers and research resources on gypsum and shingle recycling to support legislative efforts.

The next Legislative Committee meeting will be held on April 28, 2026.