US Packaging EPR Landscape Expands as More States Adopt Producer Responsibility Laws
The US packaging industry is witnessing a significant shift as Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation expands beyond California, prompting companies to rethink packaging design, material choices, and end-of-life management strategies.
While California’s landmark SB 54 law and New York’s ongoing EPR discussions have captured much of the industry’s attention, several states have already implemented legislation that places greater responsibility for waste management costs on packaging producers.
Maine became the first US state to introduce an EPR program for packaging and paper products in 2021 through its Stewardship Program for Packaging. Oregon followed the same year with the Recycling Modernization Act. Since then, momentum has continued to build, with Minnesota enacting packaging EPR legislation in 2024, while Washington and Maryland have also advanced programs designed to improve recycling systems and producer accountability.
According to Sahar Mehrabzadeh, Chief Revenue Officer at Bay Cities, additional states are preparing to join the movement. Georgia introduced new legislation in early 2026, while New Jersey continues to make progress toward adopting its own EPR framework.
“With one in five Americans already living in an EPR state, these regulations are steadily influencing how brands approach packaging materials, labeling, package design, and sustainability responsibilities,” Mehrabzadeh noted.
Phased Rollouts Support Industry Adaptatio
Industry observers point to phased implementation strategies as a critical factor in helping businesses adapt to increasingly complex compliance requirements. This approach is especially beneficial for smaller producers that may lack dedicated sustainability or regulatory teams.
California’s SB 54 remains one of the most comprehensive packaging laws in the country. Following its approval, attention is now turning toward implementation milestones. Producers are expected to submit source reduction plans by August 2026, while fee collection is scheduled to begin in January 2027. Companies that fail to register could face restrictions on market access within the state.
Longer-term goals under the legislation include significant reductions in plastic packaging, higher recycling rates, and requirements that packaging be recyclable or compostable by 2032.
However, legal uncertainty remains. Oregon’s EPR program recently faced delays following a federal injunction, and industry stakeholders anticipate potential legal challenges to California’s framework as implementation progresses.
Why California’s SB 54 Remains the Industry Benchmark
Despite growing adoption of EPR programs across the country, California continues to set the tone for industry discussions. Experts cite the law’s broad scope, ambitious waste-reduction targets, and substantial funding commitments as key reasons for its influence.
The legislation extends beyond consumer packaging to include certain business-to-business packaging applications and places significant reporting and data management requirements on producers. Industry leaders say these obligations can be particularly challenging for small and mid-sized companies.
Failure to comply may result in substantial financial penalties and restrictions on selling products within the state, prompting many companies to begin preparing well ahead of regulatory deadlines.
Opportunities for Sustainable Packaging Innovation
While compliance remains a major focus, industry leaders also see EPR programs creating long-term opportunities. Producer-funded recycling systems can help strengthen collection and processing infrastructure, increase recycled-content availability, and support the development of more sustainable packaging solutions.
Experts advise brands to begin evaluating packaging data, material usage, and design strategies now rather than waiting for regulations to become mandatory in additional states.
As EPR legislation continues to spread across the US, companies that invest early in compliance and sustainable packaging innovation are expected to be better positioned for future regulatory and market demands.
