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Bill

HB 1901

Concerning mattress producer responsibility organizations.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 10 co-sponsors

HB 1901 requires mattress manufacturers to fund collection and recycling programs through a producer responsibility organization to divert mattresses from landfills.

First reading, referred to Environment & Energy.
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Bill Summary · HB 1901

Legislative bill overview

HB 1901 establishes a mattress producer responsibility organization (PRO) system in Washington, requiring mattress manufacturers to fund collection and recycling programs for discarded mattresses. The bill shifts responsibility for end-of-life mattress management from local governments and waste facilities to producers through a PRO model, similar to existing systems in other states.

Why is this important

Mattresses are bulky, difficult-to-recycle items that consume significant landfill space and are costly for municipalities to manage. This legislation aims to divert mattresses from landfills, recover valuable materials (foam, steel, wood), reduce disposal costs for local governments, and create economic incentives for manufacturers to design more recyclable products.

Potential points of contention

  • Producer cost pass-through: Manufacturers may increase mattress prices to cover PRO fees, potentially raising consumer costs at point of purchase
  • PRO governance and effectiveness: Questions about how the PRO will be structured, whether it's profit-driven or nonprofit, and whether it will actually achieve meaningful recycling rates versus just shifting costs
  • Small business impact: Smaller mattress manufacturers may face disproportionate burden compared to large corporations with economies of scale
  • Regulatory complexity: Potential confusion about which entities qualify as "producers" and how the system will be enforced across different distribution channels

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

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