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MDE outlines EPR, paint recycling launch and boatel policy as part of waste-management push
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Summary
MDE told the committee it plans to publish draft extended producer responsibility (EPR) regulations next month, will launch a paint-recycling program this spring, and has clarified two paths for 'boatels' to provide regulatory certainty for maritime operators.
Maryland Department of the Environment officials summarized a set of waste-management and maritime policy initiatives, saying they are designed to reduce landfill demand, shift costs to producers, and provide clarity for coastal businesses.
Madam Secretary said MDE is "taking a bold step forward" with extended producer responsibility (EPR) and that the agency has convened about 22 advisory-council meetings to gather expert input. She said MDE expects to publish draft EPR regulations "early next month," noting shrinking landfill space as a driver of the initiative.
On paint stewardship, the secretary said the state's paint-recycling program plan was approved last October and will launch this spring with convenient drop-off sites at local hardware stores to keep leftover paint out of landfills and reduce disposal costs for local governments.
Rick Kessler described MDE’s new policy for "boatels," explaining the agency created two clear regulatory paths: registration as seaworthy vessels with engines or classification as fixed structures on piers. The clarification, Kessler said, aims to provide certainty for maritime small-business owners.
Committee members asked for applicable COMAR citations for pier-based dwelling units and for MDE to provide additional details on program implementation; staff offered to send the COMAR references and to follow up on implementation questions.
No regulatory votes occurred at the hearing; MDE said it will publish drafts and continue stakeholder engagement.
