HB2874 - Packaging and Paper Products Stewardship Act

• Creates a producer responsibility program requiring manufacturers to pay for and manage collection, processing, and recycling of packaging and paper products sold in Illinois through producer responsibility organizations.

• Establishes a Packaging and Paper Product Producer Responsibility Advisory Council to oversee program implementation and provide recommendations on recycling targets, plans, and performance.

• Sets recycling rate targets of 45% by December 31, 2030 and 50% by December 31, 2035 for covered materials; requires rigid plastic producers to achieve 15% postconsumer recycled content by 2028, 25% by 2031, and 50% by 2034.

• Requires producers to fund collection services at no cost to covered entities (residences, schools, government facilities, public spaces), establish minimum recyclable materials lists, and provide funding for waste prevention, reuse, and composting infrastructure by July 1, 2026.

• Mandates a statewide needs assessment, annual reporting to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, and independent audits; establishes civil penalties of $7,000 per violation per day and felony charges for false statements to the Agency.