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Bill

SB 778

Relating to: packaging reduction and recycling, creating a producer responsibility program, granting rule-making authority, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 1 co-sponsor

Wisconsin bill shifts packaging waste responsibility from municipalities to producers via an EPR program with DNR rule-making authority, manufacturer fees, and penalties for non-compliance.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 778

Legislative bill overview

SB 778 establishes a producer responsibility program in Wisconsin that shifts packaging waste management costs from municipalities to manufacturers and retailers. The bill grants the Department of Natural Resources rule-making authority to implement recycling standards and packaging reduction requirements, with associated appropriations and penalties for non-compliance.

Why is this important

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs fundamentally reshape waste management economics by making producers financially accountable for end-of-life packaging disposal rather than placing that burden on local taxpayers and waste systems. This approach could reduce packaging waste, incentivize sustainable design, and potentially lower municipal recycling costs—though implementation costs would transfer to businesses and ultimately consumers.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost shifting: Manufacturers and retailers will face new compliance and financial obligations, which may increase product prices for consumers or reduce corporate margins
  • Regulatory complexity: Vague rule-making authority grants the DNR substantial discretion in defining standards, creating uncertainty about final requirements and compliance timelines
  • Small business impact: Smaller manufacturers may face disproportionate compliance costs compared to larger corporations with existing sustainability infrastructure
  • Effectiveness questions: Critics debate whether EPR programs meaningfully reduce waste or simply reorganize financial responsibility without behavioral change

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

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