New York State is inching closer to joining the growing list of states to introduce extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation for packaging. The proposed Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act, which is currently tabled, would move the burden of the end-of-life of packaging to the producer rather than the consumer. The bill has been stalled in the state legislature for the last several years, but momentum is building. Businesses that wait until it passes to prepare might find themselves scrambling. Below, we’re highlighting what you need to know to be prepared.
What is EPR for Packaging?
Extended producer responsibility (EPR) is an environmental initiative that’s been enforced in the paint, battery, and pharmaceutical industries for years. Now, this initiative is extending to the packaging industry. The goal is to move responsibility for the end-of-life of packaging to the producer rather than the consumer.
This legislation revolves heavily around plastic and single-use plastic packaging. Most EPR programs require packaging producers to join a collective Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO). Packaging producers pay a fee to the PRO, which then distributes the funds to cover the costs of end-of-life waste reduction required by the state’s EPR legislation. Part of those costs provides funding for the collection, sorting, and processing of packaging products after consumer use.
If you’d like to learn more about the general details of EPR for packaging, see our dedicated blog. Below, we’ll dive into how EPR is affecting New York businesses.
What Is the New York Packaging EPR Bill?
New York lawmakers have introduced the Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act. This policy was originally introduced in the New York State Legislature in 2023 by Senator Peter Harckham.
The bill has since gone through revision and is now sponsored by Senator Peter Harckham and Assemblymember Deborah Glick. It calls for certain packaging producers to join and pay into the EPR program. Additionally, the bill sets reuse and recycling rates for packaging. The number is 35% by 2032, which will ramp up to 75% by 2052. The bill also calls for eliminating packaging that contains PFAS four years after the EPR program rules take effect.
Additionally, producers with more than $5 million in annual net revenue and packaging waste exceeding two tons annually need to meet packaging reduction requirements.
In total, this legislation would have significantly reduced plastic packaging and phased out 13 toxic chemicals and materials used in packaging. It would have also shifted the cost of managing packaging waste away from taxpayers and onto companies.
Why Has This Bill Not Passed Previously?
Versions of the bill were passed in 2024 and 2025 in the Senate. However, they did not make it through the Assembly before time ran out. Supporters of the bill say it will protect communities from pollution. But opponents say that it would raise already high grocery prices.
Kirsti Pecci, Executive Director at Just Zero, said the outcome was “deeply frustrating.” However, she noted that there’s a strong coalition behind the bill. Therefore, it’s important for businesses to make changes to their packaging now, before the bill is passed.
How to Prepare for EPR Legislation
The biggest way to prepare for EPR legislation is to be informed. At Jamestown Container, we’re committed to giving regular updates on these regulations. You can find answers to common questions in our in-depth blog.
The next step is to talk to your packaging producer about their plans to navigate EPR for packaging. They should understand which jurisdictions these rules affect, which registration and reporting deadlines apply to you, fee schedules, and more.
If you’re looking for a partner that’s knowledgeable about EPR for packaging, turn to Jamestown Container.
Jamestown Container Can Help You Get Ready for Extended Producer Responsibility
The Jamestown Container team is here to help you stay on top of the changing regulations surrounding EPR. Since 1956, we’ve been helping businesses get the right packaging for their needs. We offer everything from boxes and POP displays to other packaging necessities. Additionally, our team offers contract packaging services and an eVMI program for full support.
Most importantly, our business adheres to rigid sustainability practices to minimize the environmental impact of our packaging solutions. We use recycled linerboard from Greenpac Mill, one of the country’s lowest producers of paper mill landfill waste.
If you’re ready to learn how we can help you switch to more sustainable solutions, contact us today.