The legislative budget agreement between the California Assembly and Senate has been released and includes over $500 million in funding for recycling.   

In particular, Assembly Bill 154 and Senate Bill 154 include $330 million to expand beverage container recycling opportunities and recycling throughout the state.  With the closure of hundreds of recycling centers, it has become more and more difficult for consumers to get their CRV deposits back.  Funding for the administration’s $330 million proposal was approved; however, the Legislature echoed many of the concerns raised by RCRC, CSAC, and CalCities with how that money was to be spent.  These details are to be worked out by the Legislature and Governor over the next few months. 

The legislative budget agreement also devotes $180 million in Assembly Bill 32 cap and trade auction revenues to CalRecycle for organic waste infrastructure grants.  RCRC, CSAC, CalCities, Monterey Regional Waste Management District, Del Norte Solid Waste Management Authority, and Western Placer Waste Management Authority requested $180 million earlier this year to help local governments implement the state’s new organic waste recycling regulations.  Last year, local governments successfully secured considerable funding for organic waste infrastructure and local implementation assistance.  While it is not yet clear how the proposed funding will be allocated, RCRC will continue engaging to ensure that local governments receive assistance for local implementation efforts. 

It should be noted that this legislative budget proposal represents agreement only between the Assembly and Senate and it is not yet clear if the Governor approves of this plan, will sign it, or reject it.   

Please contact John Kennedy, RCRC Policy Advocate, with any questions or comments.