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SD 1773

An Act establishing a waste reduction needs assessment in the commonwealth

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Sal DiDomenico and 1 co-sponsor

The Waste Reduction Needs Assessment Act requires Massachusetts to evaluate its waste management, identify barriers to recycling, and develop strategies to increase waste diversion.

House concurred
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Bill Summary · SD 1773

Summary of SD 1773: Waste Reduction Needs Assessment Act

Overview

This proposed bill, titled "An Act establishing a waste reduction needs assessment in the commonwealth", would require the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the state's waste reduction and recycling needs. The goal is to identify areas for improvement in waste management and develop strategies to increase recycling and waste diversion across the state.

Key Provisions

  • Directs the DEP to perform a statewide "waste reduction needs assessment" within 18 months of the bill's enactment
  • The assessment must examine:
    • Current waste generation and recycling rates across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors
    • Existing waste reduction and recycling infrastructure and programs
    • Barriers and challenges to increasing waste diversion
    • Opportunities to expand recycling and waste reduction initiatives
    • Estimated costs and funding needs for improving waste management
  • Requires the DEP to solicit public input and consult with municipalities, waste haulers, recyclers, and other stakeholders during the assessment process
  • Mandates the DEP to submit a report to the state legislature with the assessment findings and recommendations for legislative or regulatory changes to enhance waste reduction and recycling

Potential Impact

  • The waste reduction needs assessment would provide a comprehensive, data-driven evaluation of Massachusetts' waste management landscape
  • The findings could inform new policies, programs, and investment to upgrade waste infrastructure, increase recycling, and reduce overall waste generation
  • Municipalities, businesses, and residents could benefit from improved waste services and expanded recycling options
  • The assessment process would facilitate greater collaboration between the state, local governments, and waste industry stakeholders

Timeline

  • The bill was introduced in the Massachusetts Senate on February 27, 2025
  • If enacted, the DEP would have 18 months to complete the waste reduction needs assessment
  • The final assessment report would then be submitted to the state legislature for consideration of next steps

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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