California vs Maine: Packaging EPR Compared
How California’s SB 54 and Maine’s LD 1541 packaging EPR requirements stack up side by side — for producers that sell into both states.
| Attribute | California | Maine |
|---|---|---|
| Legislation | SB 54 | LD 1541 |
| Full bill name | Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act | An Act Regarding the Collection and Recycling of Packaging |
| Enacted | 2022 | 2021 |
| Administering agency | CalRecycle | Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) |
| Responsible organization | Circular Action Alliance (CAA) | State-contracted Stewardship Organization |
| Directory providers | 57 listed | 47 listed |
| Next deadline | Aug 1, 2026 (49d) | Sep 1, 2026 (80d) |
CA
California requirements
- Register with the Circular Action Alliance as your Producer Responsibility Organization
- Submit an individual source reduction plan (August 2026 milestone)
- Pay eco-modulation fees based on packaging material recyclability
- Meet statewide plastic packaging source reduction targets phased through 2032
ME
Maine requirements
- Register with the approved Packaging Stewardship Organization
- Submit annual reports on covered packaging sold into Maine
- Pay fees into the Stewardship Organization to fund municipal recycling
- Remit start-up fees to the Stewardship Organization (September 2026)
Selling into both California and Maine?
47 directory providers cover both states. Get a shortlist for your full footprint.