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SD 252

An Act to promote conservation through oyster shell recycling

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Julian Cyr

Massachusetts bill creates oyster shell recycling program to divert waste and support coastal habitat restoration and water quality improvement.

Referred to the committee on Agriculture
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SD 252

Legislative bill overview

SD 252 establishes a framework to promote the recycling and reuse of oyster shells in Massachusetts, likely through collection programs, processing facilities, or incentive mechanisms. The bill aims to divert oyster shells from landfills and redirect them toward beneficial uses such as habitat restoration, water quality improvement, or construction materials.

Why is this important

Oyster shell recycling addresses both waste management and environmental restoration. Recycled shells support oyster reef restoration, which improves water quality, provides fish habitat, and protects coastlines—critical concerns for a coastal state like Massachusetts. This represents a circular economy approach to a resource that restaurants and shellfish processors currently discard.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Establishing collection and processing infrastructure requires funding; unclear whether costs fall on businesses, municipalities, or the state
  • Participation requirements: Whether shell recycling is voluntary or mandatory for restaurants, seafood processors, and oyster farms could create compliance disputes
  • Market viability: The bill's success depends on sufficient demand for recycled shells; limited market demand could make the program economically unsustainable without ongoing subsidies

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

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