SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Senate Bill 56, introduced in the Maryland Senate, proposes introduction of $2 statewide surcharge on every ton of waste disposed. The surcharge is intended to fund organics recycling infrastructure in the state.

The bill, sponsored by Sen. Katie Fry Hester, calls for setting up a Reduce, Recycle, Remanufacture Fund, for which the state is required to identify suitable funding mechanism. The funding would then be channelled to programs that support the creation of additional organics recycling infrastructure.

Earlier in 2023, Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) had received a SWIFR grant from EPA to look into the state’s existing infrastructure and report back on the urgent needs.

Several groups, including the Maryland League of Conservation Votes, Clean Water Action and the Prince George’s County Food Equity Council extended support to the bill, stating that the bill offers co-benefits such as reduction of food security and greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, the Maryland-Delaware Solid Waste Association opposed the proposal to levy surcharge on waste disposal.

Reportedly, House Del. Regina Boyce is working on a companion version of the bill, with small changes.