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Senate approves requirement for statewide comprehensive waste reduction and recycling plan
Summary
The Senate unanimously passed House Bill 295 (substituted for SB 200), directing the Department of Environmental Protection to develop a statewide comprehensive waste reduction and recycling plan, including updated goals and a three‑year roadmap by 2026.
The Florida Senate on a unanimous vote adopted House Bill 295 (substituted for Senate Bill 200), directing the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a comprehensive waste reduction and recycling plan and submit it to the Legislature by 2026.
Senator Berman, sponsor in the Senate, told colleagues the bill requires DEP to convene a technical assistance group made up of the Florida recycling work group, local governments and other stakeholders to build on the department's 2020 recycling goals report. The plan must include updated recycling goals grounded in sustainable materials management and a three‑year implementation roadmap that emphasizes education, market development for recyclable materials and evaluation of state recycling grant programs.
Supporters argued the bill aims to save local and state costs, protect the environment and provide consistent, accountable recycling goals. There was no recorded floor opposition. The Senate substituted the house companion, read the bill a third time and recorded 38 yays, 0 nays; the measure passed the Senate.
What it means: DEP will now lead a coordinated effort with local and industry partners to produce a statewide plan that identifies measurable goals and implementation steps. The legislation sets a statutory deadline for completion and requires the plan to be delivered to the Senate president and House speaker.
Votes at a glance: Senate — House Bill 295 (substituted for SB 200) — Passed 38–0.
