Key players are state agencies like Oregon DEQ, CalRecycle, and PROs such as Circular Action Alliance; producers (brands, retailers, manufacturers) via groups like EPR Leadership Forum, Can Manufacturers Institute, and NAW; legislation including Oregon RMA, California SB 54, and new 2026 bills in at least two states.[1][2][3][5][6] Western Growers contests California's exclusions impacting fresh produce packaging.[7]
This builds on 2025 enactments in Maryland/Washington (90% recycling cost reimbursement) and data collection, accelerating from prior needs assessments.[1][2][4][6][8] Newsworthy now due to 2026 harmonization of deadlines/fees across states, litigation risks, compliance costs (e.g., California penalties up to $50,000/day), and expansion debates pairing EPR with deposit systems in Northeast states like New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island.[1][2][4][5][6]