(TRENTON) – Hoping to create more convenient, cost-effective options for recycling architectural paint products normally tossed away amongst household trash, legislation sponsored by Assembly Democrats Sterley Stanley, Yvonne Lopez and James Kennedy was passed by the Assembly Environment and Solid Waste Committee.
The bill (A-1979), pertaining to architectural paints defined as interior or exterior architectural coatings sold in five gallons or less, requires producers and representative organizations of these products to develop and implement a plan for stewardship.
Sponsors of the bill issued the following statements:
Assemblyman Sterley Stanley (D-Middlesex): “In many areas, there has not been safe ways for recycling leftover paint. This bill will allow us to allocate collection sites and gather paint in a way that is much more accessible for the people in New Jersey. Through collaboration with paint producers, we will provide a much more environmentally friendly waste management solution.”
Assemblywoman Yvonne Lopez (D-Middlesex): “These paints are contaminating soil and polluting our water supply. This bill would help incentivize beneficial partnerships between manufacturers and municipalities, and serve to mitigate the harm of improper disposal by consumers. It also improves the chance of products being recycled and repurposed for the creation of new products.”
Assemblyman James Kennedy (D-Middlesex, Somerset, Union): “In placing greater responsibility on producers, we generate not only more accountability, but also reduce the financial burden on the public sector and local government agencies in managing hazardous waste. Ultimately, the stewardship is a long-term investment that spurs more conscientious decision-making by producers from the point of manufacture all the way through to the point of disposal.”