TN SB0269

Creates the "Tennessee Waste to Jobs Act" establishing a producer responsibility program requiring companies that sell products in packaging to join a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) by January 1, 2027, and fund recycling services for their packaging materials.

Requires the PRO to conduct statewide needs assessments every 5 years and submit producer responsibility plans to the Department of Environment and Conservation, with the initial plan due July 1, 2029 and implementation beginning within 6 months of approval.

Establishes a 20-member advisory board appointed by the commissioner by July 1, 2026, representing local governments, recycling facilities, environmental groups, packaging suppliers, and other stakeholders to review plans and make recommendations.

Mandates counties with populations over 200,000 participate as service providers under the program, while smaller counties and municipalities may opt in; service providers receive reimbursement for collection, transportation, and processing of covered materials.

Imposes civil penalties up to $25,000 per day for first violations, $50,000 for second violations, and $100,000 for third or subsequent violations; exempts de minimis producers (less than 1 ton of materials or under $2 million in global revenue) and certain packaging for medical products, infant formula, and long-term storage.