VT H0204

Establishes an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program requiring motor vehicle tire manufacturers to register with the Secretary of Natural Resources by July 1, 2026, and implement approved waste tire stewardship plans by January 1, 2027

Requires manufacturers to provide free waste tire collection from consumers at a minimum of two collection facilities per county year-round, accepting up to 12 tires per visit, with no cost to retailers, municipalities, or solid waste facilities serving as collection points

Sets a first-year collection rate goal of 50% of tires sold, with penalties of $0.50-$1.00 per tire for shortfalls; mandates at least 50% of collected tires be recycled or reused (tire-derived fuel does not count as recycling)

Requires stewardship plans to address legacy waste tire piles (accumulations of 50+ tires on property), include education and outreach programs, and undergo independent third-party audits every five years starting January 1, 2032

Imposes a $15,000 annual fee on manufacturers or stewardship organizations and prohibits transfer of waste tires to unlicensed haulers; small manufacturers selling under $5,000 in tires annually are exempt