Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program Reauthorization Act

Bill Number: H.R. 5846
Origin Chamber: House
Congress: 119th Congress, Session 1
Policy Area: Environmental Protection
Status: Introduced
Latest Action: 2025-10-29: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.
Last Updated: 2026-01-07T09:05:42Z

AI-Generated Summary

Purpose

The legislation aims to extend federal funding for the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program. This program supports improvements in recycling systems to reduce waste and promote sustainable waste management practices.

Key Provisions

Reauthorization of Funding: The bill amends the Save Our Seas 2.0 Act (a law focused on marine debris prevention and cleanup) to provide $65 million annually for the grant program from fiscal years 2027 through 2036.
Short Title: The act is named the "Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program Reauthorization Act."

Significant Changes to Existing Law

The original Save Our Seas 2.0 Act authorized funding for the program from fiscal years 2021 through 2025. This bill extends that authorization by adding 10 more years of funding at a consistent annual amount, ensuring long-term support without altering the program's structure or eligibility rules.

Potential Impacts

On Government Agencies: The EPA will receive sustained funding to administer grants, potentially streamlining waste management efforts and reducing administrative gaps in program delivery.
On Citizens: Communities may benefit from enhanced recycling infrastructure, leading to better waste diversion from landfills, lower environmental pollution, and possible cost savings on waste disposal for households and businesses.
On International Relations: No direct impacts are outlined, though improved U.S. recycling could indirectly support global efforts to reduce ocean plastic pollution addressed in the parent Save Our Seas 2.0 Act.
Broader Environmental Effects: Continued funding could help decrease solid waste accumulation, promoting resource conservation and public health by minimizing landfill use.

Main Stakeholders Affected

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Primary administrator of the grant program, gaining extended resources for grant distribution.
State and Local Governments: Eligible recipients of grants to upgrade recycling facilities, collection systems, and public education on waste reduction.
Recycling Industry and Non-Profits: Businesses and organizations involved in waste management that could access funding for infrastructure improvements.
General Public: Citizens in areas with enhanced recycling programs, who may experience indirect benefits like cleaner environments and economic efficiencies in waste handling.

Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications

Legal: The bill makes a minor, targeted amendment to an existing environmental statute, maintaining compliance with federal budgeting processes without introducing new regulatory burdens or enforcement mechanisms.
Constitutional: No apparent challenges; it aligns with Congress's authority under the Commerce Clause to regulate interstate environmental issues and appropriate funds for public welfare.
Political: As a reauthorization bill, it signals bipartisan support for environmental sustainability (introduced in the House and referred to the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee), potentially fostering ongoing investment in green initiatives amid broader climate policy debates. No controversial elements, such as mandates or penalties, are included.

This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.

Sponsor

Rep. Espaillat, Adriano [D-NY-13]

Recent Actions

2025-10-29: Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.
2025-10-28: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
2025-10-28: Introduced in House
2025-10-28: Introduced in House

Bill Versions

Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling Grant Program Reauthorization Act — issued 2025-10-28 — PDF (2 pages)