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Current Laws & Requirements for PCR by State 

As of August 2024, legislation in five states requires plastic packaging to include post-consumer recycled (PCR) materials.

Enacted Laws Mandating PCR Content: Timeline & Percentages

The Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) outlines the importance of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic content requirements in enhancing the circular economy and reducing environmental impact.

Mandating PCR content stabilizes recycled plastic markets, levels the competitive playing field, fosters investment and innovation, and supports community recycling programs.

Green shows the rates that are already active. All dates are effective January 1 unless stated otherwise.

Rigid Packaging

 

California
California

Rigid Plastic Packaging Container (Exemptions Apply)

Initial Rate (1995: 25%)

NJ
New Jersey (S2515)

All Other Rigid Plastic Containers

Initial Rate (2024: 10%-- Food Exempted Until 2027)

Second Target (10% Increase/3 Years)

Final Target (50%)

All Other Initiatives

 

California
California (AB 793)

Beverage Bottles (Glass and Plastics)

Initial Rate (2022: 15%)

Second Target (2025: 25%)

Final Target (2030: 50%)

California
California (SB270)

Plastic Reusable Grocery Bags

Initial Rate (2016: 20%)

Second Target (2020: 40%)

California
California

Trash Bags

Initial Rate (1998: 10%)

Washington
Washington (SB 5022)

Plastic Beverage Bottles

Initial Rate (2023: 15%)

Second Target (2026: 25%)

Final Target (2031: 50%)

Washington
Washington (SB 5022)

Plastic Wine Containers (187 ML); Dairy Milk Containers

Initial Rate (2028: 15%)

Second Target (2031: 25%)

Final Target (2036: 50%)

 

Washington
Washington (SB 5022)

Plastic Household Cleaning & Personal Care Products

Initial Rate (2025: 15%)

Second Target (2028: 25%)

Final Target (2031: 50%)

Washington
Washington (SB 5022)

Plastic Trash Bags

Initial Rate (2023: 10%)

Second Target (2025: 15%)

Final Target (2027: 20%)

 

Washington
Washington (ESSB 5323)

Reusable Carryout Bags

Initial Rate (2022: 40%)

NJ
New Jersey (S2515)

Plastic Beverage Containers

Initial Rate (2024: 15%)

Second Target (5% Increase/3 Years)

Final Target (50%)

NJ
New Jersey (S2515)

Plastic Carryout Bags

Initial Rate (2024: 20%)

Second Target (2027: 40%)

NJ
New Jersey (S2515)

Plastic Trash Bags (Varies by Bag Thickness)

Initial Rate (2024: 5-20%)

Second Target (2027: 10-40%)

Maine
Maine (LD 1467)

Plastic Beverage Containers

Initial Rate (2026: 25%)

Second Rate (2031: 30%)

Connecticut
Connecticut (HB 6664)

Plastic Beverage Containers

Initial Rate (Report by end of 2023)

Second Rate (2027: 25%)

Final Target (2032: 30%)

APR

These laws often include exemptions for small manufacturers and certain product types. The APR's PCR Certification Program is recognized in some states to ensure compliance and accountability.

To support the adoption of PCR, the APR encourages manufacturers to:​

  • Obtain PCR certification.

  • Advocate for increased use of PCR in products and packaging.

  • Stay informed about policy updates through APR resources.​