 April 2026
Programs & News – Oregon & Washington
Introducing the New NWPSC Website
NWPSC is excited to launch our redesigned website! Over time, our work has grown in scope and impact, and our website now reflects that evolution. Whether you’re a longtime member looking for updates and resources, or someone new exploring product stewardship in the Northwest, the new site is designed to make your experience more intuitive, informative, and engaging.
Oregon Battery Bill Signed into Law
Oregon House Bill 4144 has been signed into law, creating a statewide producer responsibility program for most portable and medium-format batteries. The law requires battery producers to take part in a coordinated system for collection and recycling to improve safe end-of-life management and expand access to recycling services. Governor Tina Kotek signed the bill on April 7.
Ecology Seeks Input on Recycling Lists and Needs Assessment
The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to support implementation of Washington’s Recycling Reform Act. The RFI seeks technical input, datasets, and recommendations to help inform the development of statewide recycling and composting material lists, as well as required needs assessments. Ecology is requesting feedback from service providers, producers, community organizations, end markets, and other stakeholders to better understand system performance, market conditions, and opportunities to strengthen Washington’s recycling and organics systems. Submissions are due by May 8, 2026.
Ecology Seeks Input on Potential Bottle Bill
The Washington State Department of Ecology is inviting public input on how a recycling refunds program, commonly known as a bottle bill, could be designed to best serve communities across Washington. A short survey is now available to gather feedback on recycling habits, access, convenience, and features that would make a refund-based recycling system easy and effective to use. Responses will help inform recommendations to the Washington State Legislature regarding whether and how such a program could be implemented. Take the survey by May 22, 2026.
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First Producer-Funded Recycling Upgrade in OR
The Dalles became the first Oregon community to expand curbside recycling service using funding from packaging producers. The investment supported the rollout of new, larger recycling carts for nearly 5,000 households.
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Oregon Judge Clarifies Packaging EPR Injunction
A federal judge in Oregon has clarified a preliminary injunction tied to the state’s Recycling Modernization Act, limiting protections to members of the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors who joined by Feb. 6, 2026. Companies joining after that date are not covered and must comply with the law while the case proceeds toward a July 13, 2026 trial. The ruling also rejected efforts by additional industry groups, including the American Forest & Paper Association, to expand the injunction, keeping its scope narrowly applied.
Programs & News – Other States
MN Boat Wrap Recycling Program Launch
Wrap Recycle Right has launched Minnesota’s first statewide boat wrap recycling program. The producer-funded effort shifts responsibility for collecting used boat shrink wrap from local governments to manufacturers, who are setting up and operating a network of free drop-off sites at marinas, dealers, and storage facilities. In its first year, the program aims to recover about 200,000 pounds of plastic film while expanding convenient recycling options for boat owners across the state.
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Maryland Rolls Out Paint Stewardship Program
Maryland has officially launched a new statewide paint stewardship program, making it easier for residents and businesses to recycle leftover paint, stain, and varnish. The program, operated by PaintCare, began April 1 and creates a convenient network of drop-off locations at participating retailers and local government sites across the state. This is the 13th such program in the U.S.
Apparel Industry Challenges California Textile PRO Selection
The American Apparel & Footwear has filed a legal challenge to California’s selection of a producer responsibility organization (PRO) under its landmark textile EPR law, SB 707. The group is questioning the state’s decision to approve Landbell USA as the PRO, arguing it does not meet statutory requirements around governance and financial controls. The petition asks regulators to revisit the selection as implementation deadlines approach.
EPA to Review Microplastics and Pharmaceuticals in Drinking Water
The EPA is adding microplastics and pharmaceuticals to its Contaminant Candidate List under the Safe Drinking Water Act, allowing for further study of their presence and potential health effects. The listing does not establish new regulatory limits. Federal agencies are also launching a $144 million research initiative to improve detection methods and assess health risks.
Virginia Governor Vetoes Mattress Stewardship Bill
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger vetoed legislation that would have created a statewide mattress stewardship program. House Bill 86 proposed an EPR system funded by a fee on mattress sales to support collection and recycling. In her veto statement, Spanberger cited concerns about program structure and potential consumer cost impacts.
New Hampshire Governor Vetoes Paint Stewardship Bill
New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte vetoed a bipartisan bill that would have established a statewide paint stewardship program. House Bill 451 proposed an EPR system funded by a per-can fee on paint sales to support collection and recycling. Ayotte rejected the measure, characterizing the fee as a “sales tax” and citing her opposition to new consumer costs.
The Recycling Partnership Announces CEO Transition
The Recycling Partnership announced that CEO Keefe Harrison will step down effective July 31, 2026, as part of a planned leadership transition. Harrison, who founded the organization and has led it for more than a decade, will support the transition through August. The Board has initiated a national search for a new CEO.
Events & Webinars
41st Annual SWANA Northwest Regional Symposium
CWMA EPR Programs Webinar Series – Major Appliance Recycling Roundtable
2026 Washington State Recycling Association (WSRA) Conference
2026 Association of Oregon Recyclers (AOR) Conference
- Graduate Hotel, Eugene, OR | June 22-24, 2026
P2 West Conference
- Portland, OR | Sept. 23-24, 2026
Engage with the Northwest Product Stewardship Council (NWPSC). Join as an Associate, Steering Committee, or Community member.
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