Legislature Approves Bill That Shifts Packaging Costs To Large Companies

A bill that aims to reduce packaging waste has cleared the legislature and is headed to Gov. Janet Mills’ desk. The proposal would establish what’s called an Extended Producer Responsibility program, which shifts the cost of packaging waste to large companies, such as Amazon and Walmart.

Environmental advocacy groups are applauding the legislature’s passage of the bill.

The bill would initially apply to businesses that make over $5 million in gross revenue. If signed into law by Gov. Janet Mills, Maine would join European countries and several Canadian Provinces that have what are referred to as ‘Extended Producer Responsibility’ programs. Packaging industry advocates are urging Mills to veto the bill, saying it would raise costs for consumers.

Oregon’s governor is also considering a similar proposal.

Megan Diver

Megan has worked in Maine politics for more than ten years and all of her professional career, having served in many roles for elected officials (including former Secretary of State Charlie Summers), in-house with the Maine Association of REALTORS®, legislative specialist at Pierce Atwood LLP providing lobbying services and support to Pierce Atwood’s government relations clients and most recently senior government relations specialist at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. Megan currently is the Vice President at the Maine Energy Marketers Association, utilizing her vast knowledge and legislative experience at the State House to represent MEMA on policies relating to the Association and its members.