Waste Dive
28 January 2026
Bottle bill supporters face same challenges, new economic conditions for 2026
Why It Matters for ITAD
The article discusses hurdles and strategies for passing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws (like bottle bills), a model increasingly applied to electronics. ITAD professionals must track EPR developments as they directly shape future e-waste regulations, compliance burdens, and funding mechanisms. Understanding the political and economic arguments used (like domestic manufacturing) helps anticipate and adapt to similar pressures in electronics recycling policy.
Bottle bills will face the same hurdles as in years’ past, but supporters in places like Maryland and Washington hope new perspectives on domestic manufacturing and EPR can help make their case.
Key Takeaways
- • EPR policy momentum continues: Despite challenges, advocates are pushing EPR using new arguments (domestic materials, circular economy), signaling its persistent relevance for future e-waste legislation.
- • Anticipate similar regulatory hurdles: The political and economic challenges faced by bottle bills (industry opposition, cost concerns, infrastructure needs) mirror those faced by electronics EPR, requiring proactive industry engagement.
- • Focus on domestic supply chains strengthens: The emphasis on using EPR to bolster domestic manufacturing and material supply chains is a growing argument that could impact ITAD, favoring refurbishment and domestic material recovery.
