District monitors battery-recycling bill and possible rewrite of state solid-waste code

District staff briefed directors on legislative activity affecting waste management, highlighting a battery-recycling bill that staff identified in the meeting as House Bill 1231 and broader interest in extended producer responsibility.

Staff said the battery bill currently focuses on lithium-ion batteries and that associations including the Association of Solid Waste Districts and the Waste Hauler Association are reviewing the bill and proposing changes, including possible expansion of covered items and clarifications around damaged batteries and transport costs.

"House Bill 12 31," an attendee read aloud when asked for the number, and staff said they are attempting to schedule meetings with the bill’s authors so the district can provide input. Directors also noted discussion in legislative circles about a larger package that could rewrite Title 13 of the Indiana Code (environment), and staff said they would monitor developments and engage when drafts are available.

Staff added that a state materials-management plan is being developed to replace the existing solid-waste management plan and that federal grant funding linked to that plan is currently delayed until the state plan is finalized; staff said they will wait for the state plan to know what to apply for and how federal funds would flow.

The board did not take any formal votes on legislative positions at this meeting; staff signaled they would seek further guidance as bills are filed and as the state plan is released.