Legislative Updates

On January 31, 2023 CalRecycle held their first informational session for the Packaging and Plastic Food Ware Extended Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54). At this session, CalRecycle staff provided an overview of the statute, the SB 54 rulemaking process, and CalRecycle’s Material Characterization Studies. Staff highlighted the importance of community engagement throughout the rulemaking process and their plans to host monthly meetings for all stakeholders and interested parties to stay informed.

HF&H is committed to closely following the rulemaking process for SB 54 and engaging, as necessary, to ensure our clients’ interests are considered. We encourage you to also stay up to date with the latest news, meeting dates, and comment periods by subscribing to the CalRecycle SB 54 listserv. Their next informational session will be held on Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 10:00 am. Interested parties can attend in-person or via Zoom/webcast.

CalRecycle recently announced the nomination process for the SB 54 Advisory Board. The director of CalRecycle will appoint members of the 16-person advisory board by July 1, 2023. The Board’s main responsibilities will include:

• Providing the Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), CalRecycle, and other relevant parties with recommendations to create a circular economy and implement SB 54.
• Reviewing needs assessments and updates.
• Reviewing the submitted PRO plans and offering written comments.
• Publishing deliverables and accomplished goals.

Each member will be required to attend all meetings, contribute to work products, and serve a three-year term. Members are also required to provide their own travel costs, as required. If you are interested in serving or have been nominated by a statewide association to serve on the Advisory Board, please submit your online application no later than March 24, 2023. For more information about the Advisory Board, please visit CalRecycle’s Advisory Board webpage.