Incentivize Development Recycling End Markets

Section 1 of the act directs the department of public health and environment (department) to convene stakeholders to inform the department regarding a structure and governing guidance for a recycling market development center to support the development of end-market businesses within the state. Section 1 also directs the department to conduct a literature review of what industry and other states are doing around the country regarding producer responsibility and to create policy and legislative recommendations regarding the feasibility of requiring producers to design, manage, and finance programs for end-of-life management of their products and packaging as a condition of sale.

Sections 3, 4, and 5 allow the pollution prevention advisory board (board) to use the recycling resources economic opportunity fund and the front range waste diversion cash fund to reimburse eligible recycling businesses for locally assessed personal property taxes paid in the current tax year in this state on personal property. Section 2 directs the board to establish a formula that it would use in awarding personal property tax reimbursements.

Section 6 requires the department, as soon as practicable, to administer a statewide campaign to educate Colorado residents concerning recycling. The department shall ensure the campaign includes:

• Communications delivered via social media;
• Television and radio public service announcements; and
• The placement of written materials in public locations, such as community centers, recreation centers, and shopping centers.

In administering the campaign, the department shall consult with municipal governments, county governments, and private agencies that operate recycling programs. The department may contract with one or more public or private entities for the preparation of materials to be used in the campaign. The requirement is repealed, effective September 1, 2021.

Section 7 appropriates $985,283 from the recycling resources economic opportunity fund and 2.1 FTE to the department to implement the act.

(Note: This summary applies to this bill as enacted.)