SF1878

This bill proposes an amendment to Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 115A.93, subdivision 3. The main objective is to eliminate the requirement for residents who do not recycle organics to pay for organics recycling services.

Key Provisions:

1. Charges Based on Volume or Weight – Licensing authorities must continue requiring waste collection fees to increase with the volume or weight of the waste collected.

2. Charges for Recycling Services – Waste collectors cannot charge more to residents who recycle than those who do not, except in cases of source-separated compostable materials and sole-source food waste streams that are processed through biodegradative methods.

3. Exemptions from Variable Pricing:

   • A county solid waste management plan may exempt a jurisdiction from variable rate pricing if it is determined that other mechanisms provide more effective waste reduction incentives.
   • The Commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) may temporarily exempt an authority from variable rate pricing if:
     • It collects more recyclable materials than required.
     • It has a recycling participation rate of at least 70% or exceeds the county average.
     • It is located in a county that has surpassed state recycling goals.

Impact:

• Residents who do not recycle organics will no longer be required to pay for organics recycling services.
• Encourages counties and waste collection services to determine waste pricing structures without mandating uniform costs for organics recycling for all residents.

This bill is currently under review in the Senate Environment, Climate, and Legacy Committee.