Hearing commission backs SB293 to let counties exempt very low-income households from mandatory solid‑waste collection

A hearing commission voted to give a favorable recommendation to SB293, a bill filed by Randy Price that would allow county commissions to exempt households whose total income does not exceed 75% of the federal poverty level from mandatory solid‑waste collection.

A staff member summarized the bill for the panel, saying, “What this would do would allow for the county commission to grant an exemption to the mandatory solid waste collection program based to any household whose total income does not exceed 75% of the federal poverty level.” The staff member added that counties “may adopt rules, regulations to implement this section” and that the bill would take effect June 1 if enacted.

The record shows the measure was presented as a resolution by the hearing commission at the request of the Lee County Commission. A motion to give the bill a favorable recommendation was made by Mister Painter and seconded by Representative Gray. The panel voted by voice; those present responded “aye,” and the commission recorded a favorable recommendation for SB293.

The transcript includes a question about whether any income exemptions already exist in the county; the staff member responding said, “I don't think there is.” The transcript does not identify any existing local program or provide a roll‑call vote tally.

The discussion in the meeting was brief and procedural. The transcript does not record any amendments to the measure, nor does it specify subsequent steps for the bill at the commission level beyond the favorable recommendation. The meeting record closes with a staff member thanking Erica for organizing the session.