Nebraska Natural Resources Committee hears sweeping bill on recycling, batteries and fees

Senator Eliot Bostar, introducer of LB607, told the Natural Resources Committee that the bill would create a comprehensive recycling framework for Nebraska, including recognition of advanced plastic-recycling technologies as manufacturing, a statewide battery stewardship program, higher landfill disposal fees and expanded producer data reporting. "LB607 will help bring new innovative recycling technologies to Nebraska," Bostar said in his opening remarks.

The bill’s sponsor told senators the measure is intended to expand the state’s ability to recycle plastics, strengthen local manufacturing and reduce pollution. "These facilities will still be subject to important environmental protections, including oversight under the Federal Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, and Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy regulations," Bostar said. He also described a planned, incremental increase to the statewide disposal fee: from the current $1.25 per ton to $2.25 in 2026, $3.25 in 2027 and $4.25 in 2028.

Why it matters: LB607 aims to reshape Nebraska’s recycling infrastructure and funding at a time when several speakers said the state has low recycling rates and rising landfill costs. Supporters argued the bill could attract private investment and create markets for hard‑to‑recycle plastics; opponents warned the measure includes new mandates and reporting that could impose costs on manufacturers, retailers and small businesses.

Supporters…