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States to Watch

Seven US states have enacted packaging EPR laws. These eight states are actively considering legislation — ranging from near-enactment to early study phases. Updated June 2026.

Last updated: Jun 2026

None of these states have enacted packaging EPR laws yet. No producer registration or fee obligations apply until a law is formally enacted and implementing regulations are issued. Monitor official state agency and CAA announcements.

RI

Rhode Island

S.2656
Closest to Enacting Watch by: 2027

Passed a needs assessment law (H6207) in 2025. Implementation bill S.2656 introduced in 2026 — shifting from study to active program design. Most advanced non-enacted state.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): High
NJ

New Jersey

S3398 / A5009
Active Debate Watch by: 2027

Packaging and Paper Product Stewardship Act reintroduced early 2026, not yet enacted. NJ already has a Recycled Content Law (2022). Industry and environmental advocacy groups actively lobbying.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Medium
MA

Massachusetts

S.571
Commission Study Watch by: 2027-2028

EPR Commission submitted findings January 2026, endorsing a 'needs assessment' approach. S.571 is under active consideration. Expected to move toward implementation after needs assessment is complete.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Medium
NY

New York

SB 1464A / A1749A (PRRIA)
Failed — Watching Watch by: 2028+

PRRIA failed to advance — the 2026 legislative session adjourned June 5, 2026 without a floor vote. This is the third consecutive year of failure. Strong industry opposition. May be reintroduced in 2027.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Low (near-term)
CT

Connecticut

HB 5151
Study Phase Watch by: 2028

HB 5151 requires a comprehensive EPR study report by January 15, 2027. CT already has EPR programs for electronics, paint, and mattresses. Packaging EPR follows if study recommends it.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Medium
IL

Illinois

HB 4064
Proposal Stage Watch by: 2028+

Introduced May 2025, still in committee. State is also conducting a statewide recycling needs assessment. Early-stage advocacy.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Low
HI

Hawaii

HB 750
Study Mandated Watch by: 2028-2029

HB 750 signed May 2025 — mandates a needs assessment with findings due December 31, 2027. No packaging EPR program enacted. Follow-on legislation expected after 2027 report.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Low (near-term)
VA

Virginia

None introduced
Discussion Only Watch by: 2029+

Frequently discussed at the state policy level and by advocacy groups. No packaging EPR bill has been formally introduced. High probability of future legislation based on trend trajectory.

Enactment likelihood (near-term): Low

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Browse providers and compliance deadlines for all seven enacted US states.