Focus on Paint and Batteries
The NWPSC is focusing its efforts on Paint and Rechargeable Battery Stewardship legislation in 2013.
Oregon
Oregon's Legislative Session began Feb. 4 and adjourned July 8, 2013. HB 2048, which repeals the sunset on the architectural paint stewardship program, passed both chambers of the legislature and awaits the Governor's signature. HB 2938 (rechargeable battery stewardship) was heard April 16 but did not move out of committee before adjournment.
Washington
The Washington State Legislature 2013 Regular Session began Jan. 14, 2013 and Apr. 3 was the cutoff date for bills from the opposite house – no stewardship-related bills passed. SB 5658 (repealing mercury lights stewardship law) passed the Senate on March 13 and was heard in House Environment on March 27 but is now dead. HB 1364 (rechargeable battery stewardship) passed the House on March 6 and was heard in Senate Environment on March 20 but is now dead. SB 5424 (paint stewardship), heard in Ways and Means Feb. 27, is now dead.
Many local governments in Washington support product stewardship in their county plans, and some local governments and other organizations have passed resolutions or written letters of support for paint and rechargeable battery stewardship legislation.
Legislative Work Session: Integrating Producer Responsibility Programs into Existing Solid Waste Handling Systems
The Washington State House Environment Committee held a Sept. 19, 2012, work session to examine product stewardship programs in other states, explore locally-based options, and consider how the creation of end of life cycle management programs for certain toxic consumer products can best be integrated with existing local collection systems for waste.
What We Do
The NWPSC works on products that meet specific criteria such as products that contain toxic or hazardous materials, or products that are hard to handle and don't work well in the typical solid waste management system.
Work is conducted via Subcommittees comprised of Steering Committee Members, Associates and other stakeholders. There are nine active Subcommittees and one Oregon-specific policy subcommittee. Activities conducted by the Subcommittees including tracking product stewardship policies and legislation, drafting policy language, conducting pilot projects, and writing reports, fact sheets, letters and other materials that address product stewardship topics. To view the NWPSC activities and materials visit the following product links.