August ’26 at-a-glance … environment

August 12, 2026

EPR updates

  • Join NAFEM’s next Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Working Group meeting Aug. 19 at 2 p.m. CT to discuss evolving state regulations. California, Colorado, Maryland and Oregon have active programs for end-of-life packaging. Maine, Minnesota and Washington have forthcoming programs. All seven states require annual supply reporting and California, Oregon and Washington also mandate reduction mandates. The video and slides from the July 3 meeting are still available online, along with a background presentation from NAFEM’s legal counsel.
  • The Maine Department of Environmental Protection is seeking public comments on proposed changes to its electronic waste handling and recycling rules. The Department proposes removing the $0.48 cap on cost schedules and allowing consolidators to include refurbishment and reuse when calculating allowable handling, transportation and recycling cost. Comments are due Aug. 14.

PFAS updates

  • Illinois HB 2955 was advanced to Gov. Pritzker. The bill would hold PFAS manufacturers (not defined) fully responsible for the costs of monitoring, containing and eliminating PFAS from wastewater systems, including expenses tied to future state and federal requirements. It also would establish a committee to calculate these costs and develop a framework for manufacturers directly.
  • Minnesota provided an overview of reporting fees and payment options for PFAS reporters.
  • New Mexico posted new resources for manufacturers subject to PFAS regulations, including labeling samples, reporting guidance and an FAQ. A lawsuit by multiple associations challenging the state’s requirements was filed July 1 in U.S. District Court. Under the current requirements:By Jan. 1, 2027, consumer products containing intentionally added PFAS manufactured for sale in New Mexico must meet the state’s labeling requirements.
    • By Jan. 1, 2027, manufacturer must report on products sold, offered for sale, distributed, or distributed for sale in the state – directly, indirectly or through intermediaries – that contain intentionally added PFAS.
    • By Jan. 1, 2027, manufacturer must report on products sold, offered for sale, distributed, or distributed for sale in the state – directly, indirectly or through intermediaries – that contain intentionally added PFAS.
  • The U.K. government said restricting PFAS to essential use, as recommended by the Parliament/House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee, “presents additional complexities.” It also expressed interest in aligning with the EU to move toward safer alternatives. The Government committed to no additional action beyond the measures outlined in its February 2026 PFAS Plan.
  • The regularly updated Complex Products Manufacturers Coalition (CPMC) spreadsheet includes current and proposed state and federal regulations addressing PFAS.