SB 54 Packaging EPR Proposed Regulations

CalRecycle has scheduled a new informal public workshop on June 23, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to take feedback on the EPR program for single-use packaging in California as required by SB 54 (Allen 2022). The June 16 notice includes a new discussion document that clarifies definitions for material covered under the EPR and also what materials will not be covered, such as beverage containers under the CRV. Earlier this month, Wine Institute provided comments in support of proposed regulations posted by CalRecycle on May 18. The California Chamber submitted a coalition letter on SB 54 that included our clarifying language, among other concerns, that Wine Institute also signed onto. Exceptions to covered materials in the proposed EPR language are facing strong opposition from environmental groups concerned that they will result in significantly more unrecycled plastic. CalRecycle is reviewing the informal comments submitted from the public in anticipation of restarting the formal regulatory process for the implementation of SB 54 after Governor Newsom directed CalRecycle to wait on submitting proposed regulations to “ensure the law can achieve its goal of cutting plastic pollution and is implemented fairly.”