The Flexible Packaging Association (FPA), a leading advocate and voice for the growing U.S. flexible packaging industry, announces its strong support for Maryland鈥檚 new packaging extended producer responsibility (EPR) law approved by Governor Wes Moore. This critical piece of legislation is designed to facilitate industry investment in the recycling system for all packaging materials in Maryland, including flexible films.
The law serves as a vital shared responsibility pathway for businesses, municipalities, and consumers by creating a structure in which packaging producers pay fees that will go directly to investments in Maryland鈥檚 recycling infrastructure for their packaging types. As the sixth state to pass a packaging EPR law, Maryland was able to draw lessons from the FPA-supported Minnesota law enacted in 2024 and the ongoing regulatory processes in each of the other states and incorporate those lessons into its own framework. Earlier this year, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) issued its first needs assessment that predicted a 9% increase in the recycling of flexible films after implementing a packaging EPR program.
鈥淭he data-driven approach taken by Senator Augustine, sponsor of the enabling legislation Senate Bill 901, and Governor Moore will enhance recycling access and advance a more circular economy for flexible films in Maryland,鈥� said Dan Felton, FPA President and CEO. 鈥淎s an association dedicated to advancing the sustainability benefits of flexible films and expanding recycling opportunities, FPA is proud to have been an early supporter of Senator Augustine鈥檚 legislation,鈥� said John Richard, FPA Director of Government Relations.
FPA looks forward to working with MDE and other stakeholders on the successful implementation of Maryland鈥檚 new packaging EPR program.