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HB 600

Solid Waste Disposal - As introduced, enacts the "Tennessee Waste to Jobs Act," which requires producers of goods to participate in a responsibility organization for recycling, reuse, and composting of certain packaging material. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 29, Part 2 and Title 68, Chapter 211.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Bob Freeman and 1 co-sponsor

Requires Tennessee product manufacturers to fund recycling organizations for packaging materials, shifting waste management costs from municipalities to producers under an Extended Producer Responsibility model.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee of Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 600

Legislative bill overview

HB 600, the "Tennessee Waste to Jobs Act," establishes a producer responsibility framework requiring manufacturers and distributors of goods to financially support or participate in organizations that manage recycling, reuse, and composting of packaging materials. This shifts waste management costs from municipalities and taxpayers to producers themselves, a model known as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).

Why is this important

Currently, local governments bear most costs for managing municipal solid waste and recycling programs through tax funding. This bill would transfer financial responsibility upstream to producers, potentially reducing strain on local budgets while incentivizing manufacturers to design less wasteful packaging. The policy could significantly reshape Tennessee's waste management landscape and producer business practices statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost pass-through to consumers: Manufacturers may incorporate EPR costs into product prices, potentially raising consumer expenses, particularly for lower-income households buying packaged goods
  • Small business burden: Smaller producers and retailers may face disproportionate compliance costs compared to large corporations with existing sustainability infrastructure
  • Implementation complexity: Defining which packaging materials qualify, establishing responsibility organization standards, and creating enforcement mechanisms requires substantial regulatory development and coordination
  • Interstate commerce concerns: Producers selling across state lines may face conflicting EPR requirements if other states adopt different standards

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

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