American Coatings Association expands paint stewardship program to 11 states

The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) held its second Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Commission meeting on May 24, 2025, focusing on the management of leftover paint through a stewardship program. The meeting featured a presentation from the American Coatings Association, which has been actively involved in developing paint stewardship initiatives across various states.

The discussion highlighted the importance of addressing the environmental impact of leftover paint, a significant issue for communities. The American Coatings Association's Senior Vice President for Government Affairs shared insights into the PaintCare program, which aims to manage the end-of-life phase of paint products. This initiative began in response to concerns raised by the Product Stewardship Institute, which sought to engage paint manufacturers in finding sustainable solutions for paint disposal.

Currently, the PaintCare program operates in 11 states, with Massachusetts and New Hampshire identified as key areas for future expansion. The program's success relies on a model that includes statewide legislation, sustainable financing through consumer fees, and antitrust protections to ensure fair participation among manufacturers. The goal is to create a consistent framework that benefits both the environment and the paint industry.

As the program expands, it aims to cover approximately 33% of the U.S. population once new initiatives in Illinois and Maryland are fully operational. The Massachusetts EPR Commission is working to establish similar legislation, which would provide a structured approach to managing leftover paint and reduce the burden on local governments.

The meeting underscored the collaborative efforts between industry stakeholders and environmental agencies to create effective solutions for paint waste management. As the initiative progresses, it promises to enhance community engagement and environmental stewardship, ultimately benefiting residents across Massachusetts. The next steps involve finalizing the proposed legislation and continuing discussions on how best to implement the program statewide.