Political News:
04/24/09
Although legislation creating a model paint recycling and stewardship program is expected to pass the Minnesota Senate – and is supported by the paint industry – it faces significant hurdles for the second year in a row.
Work on S.F. 477 follows a surprise veto of similar legislation by Gov. Tim Pawlenty last year. And some observers of the Minnesota House say this year’s legislation (H.F 569) may be watered down. If it is, Minnesota will lose a chance to lead on a waste issue with serious consequences for our water and air.
The problem the bills are designed to solve: used paint is the largest household hazardous waste stream in Minnesota, other than electronics. About 1.3 million gallons of leftover paint are generated each year in Minnesota. Paint is currently collected by local household hazardous waste programs but the new program would expand collection options to willing retailers, thus increasing the recycling rate.
S.F. 477, sponsored by Senator John Doll (DFL- Burnsville) would provide for a cost-effective recycling system and a paint recycling fee collected and spent by a paint stewardship organization, not the state. This feature responds to the Governor’s claim in his 2008 veto that the legislation would have created a new tax.
Although fee bills are often opposed by the industries affected, S.F. 477 has the support of the National Paint and Coatings Association and Minnesota paint producers Hirshfield’s, Vogel Paint and Valspar. They believe the industry can conduct the program more efficiently than government. Additionally, a paint recycling operation in Fridley says it will create additional jobs if the legislation passes.
The bill would also relieve local governments of between $4 million and $5 million a year in paint recycling and management costs.
House members may weaken the legislation by removing the fee requirement in the legislation, rendering it toothless.
Rep. Brita Sailer (DFL-Park Rapids) is sponsor of the House bill and Minnesotans interested in environmentally sounds paint stewardship should contact her to express support for H.F. 569.
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