On May 13, Governor Wes Moore signed
SB0901 Packaging Materials - Producer Responsibility Plans into law, making Maryland the sixth state in the U.S. to adopt an EPR program for packaging. MRN played a central role in shaping this landmark legislation by working with the bill’s sponsor, Senator Malcolm Augustine, alongside the
Product Stewardship Institute (PSI) and
Trash Free Maryland (TFM) among others.
SB 901 represents a major shift in how Maryland manages packaging waste by moving financial and operational responsibility from local governments to the companies that produce packaging materials. The law aims to reduce waste, increase recycling and composting, and support the transition to a more circular economy.
As a key partner in developing the bill, MRN provided on-the-ground insight into the state’s recycling infrastructure and policy needs. The organization advocated for a shared-responsibility model and helped ensure the legislation reflected Maryland’s unique recycling landscape.
“This new law creates a shared responsibility in which packaging companies will cover most recycling costs,” said Chaz Miller, Chair of MRN’s Legislative Committee. “We're excited to work with local governments, public and private MRF operators, MDE, and the producer group to build a recycling system based on Maryland's unique needs.”
The bill, developed over several years of collaboration, incorporates best practices from PSI’s national EPR policy model and benefits from the grassroots advocacy and public education efforts led by TFM. It includes innovative provisions such as eco-modulated fees, support for multiple Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs), and phased funding benchmarks.
The passage of SB 901 was announced in a May 13 press release issued jointly by PSI, TFM, and MRN. It marks the culmination of sustained legislative engagement and cross-sector cooperation, and a major step toward a more equitable and efficient recycling future in Maryland.
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Read the full press release...
*Be sure to join us on Thursday, May 15, at 12 p.m. ET for MRN Legislation Town Hall as we discuss the impacts of SB 901 and other legislation along with a forecast of what might be coming in 2026. This is your chance to ask any questions about recycling-related legislation and share your ideas on recycling-related legislation you’d like to see in the future.
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