This resolution urges the United States Congress and federal fisheries managers to make changes to the federal Prohibited Species Donation program to reduce the waste of edible bycatch, increase vessel participation, and improve food security in the state.

Adjourned 5/20/26.

*This bill, known as the "Farm-to-Food Bank Act of 2026," aims to encourage farmers and food establishment owners in Alabama to donate edible food products to qualifying food banks by offering a state income tax credit. An "eligible donor" is defined as a farmer (an Alabama taxpayer earning at least $1,000 from agriculture or filing an acreage report with the USDA) or a food establishment owner. "Edible farm products" include various agricultural goods that are fit for human consumption and not deemed unfit by health officials. A "qualifying food bank" is an Alabama-based entity affiliated with the Feeding America network. The tax credit will be the lesser of 15% of the donated food's value, calculated similarly to federal tax purposes, or $5,000, and cannot reduce a taxpayer's liability below zero, is non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be carried forward. To claim the credit, taxpayers must first file an annual informational report with the Department of Agriculture and Industries, which will then issue a tax credit certificate on a first-come, first-served basis until an annual aggregate cap of $2,000,000 is reached. The credit can be claimed starting with the 2027 tax year and will expire after the 2031 tax year.

Pending Senate Finance and Taxation General Fund

Adjourned 4/9/26.

*This bill requires state agencies like the Department of Administration, Department of Transportation, and Arizona State Parks Board to use compost produced in Arizona for landscaping and land management projects on state-owned or managed land, provided it is available. Compost is considered available if it is produced and offered for sale in Arizona, meets project quality standards and any applicable state or federal requirements, can be delivered within a reasonable time, and its price is no more than 20% higher than comparable out-of-state compost. For purposes of the bill, "compost"includes the biologically stable organic material that is produced through the controlled aerobic decomposition of organic matter that is suitable for use as a soil amendment.

Adjourned 6/13/26.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Chapter 65, Statutes of 2026.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

This bill provides comprehensive updates to various education finance and policy provisions for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The bill allocates $145,000,000 to be available to award local education agencies for the continued implementation of universal school meals which may be used for infrastructure or training and professional development for food service staff to reduce food waste, among other things.

Ordered to inactive file at the request of Senator Grayson.

This bill requires the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, upon appropriation, to administer a grant program to provide financial assistance to promote the in-state development of infrastructure, food waste prevention, or other projects to reduce organic waste, sort and aggregate or process organic and other recyclable materials into new, value-added products, or divert items from disposal through enhanced reuse opportunities. The bill would expand the grant program to provide financial assistance for the recovery of edible food, as specified. The bill would specify that eligible infrastructure projects includes the construction or expansion of facilities to help develop, implement, or expand edible food waste recovery operations. The bill would require the department to consider the increased amount of edible food recovery capacity that the project will create when awarding a grant for edible food recovery.

From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.

This bill, on or before June 1, 2027, would require the Office of Planning and Research, Land Use and Climate Innovation, in consultation with the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery, to develop and post on the office's internet website, a technical advisory, as provided, reflecting best practices to facilitate the siting of composting facilities to meet the organic waste reduction goals.

From committee: Filed with the Chief Clerk pursuant to Joint Rule 56.

This bill authorizes a local jurisdiction to include organic material used as a beneficial agricultural amendment derived from organic waste processed with biosolids towards up to 10% of its recovered organic waste procurement target if the material is processed at a facility authorized by the Department of Resources, Recycling, and Recovery using specified approved technologies, and if the material is licensed for end use as an agricultural fertilizer by the Department of Food and Agriculture.

In Assembly. Concurrence in Senate amendments pending.

This bill prohibits a person from selling or offering for sale a product that is labeled with the term “compostable” or “home compostable” unless the product has OK compost HOME certification or meets a standard adopted by the Department of Resources, Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle). This measure also repeals the requirement for CalRecycle to review revisions to the ASTM standard specification if the standard is adopted or developed by a standard-setting organization recognized by the department. On an after January 1, 2027, this bill prohibits a person from selling or offering for sale a product in this state that is labeled with the term “compostable” or “home compostable” that is made wholly or partially of plastic, as defined.

Senate Appropriations Hearing (10:00:00 8/3/2026 1021 O Street, Room 2200)

This bill would, on and after August 1, 2027, clarify that the locations for new or expanded waste recycling facilities include, but are not limited to, a medium compostable material handling facility or operation and a small compostable material handling facility or operation, as defined. To the extent the bill would require a local jurisdiction to include additional information in its annual report, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program. The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement. This bill would provide that, if the Commission on State Mandates determines that the bill contains costs mandated by the state, reimbursement for those costs shall be made pursuant to the statutory provisions noted above.

*This bill clarifies that the new food labeling requirements, which mandate specific uniform terms like "BEST if Used by" for quality dates and "USE by" for safety dates on food items manufactured on or after July 1, 2026, do not apply to dietary supplements.

Heath Flora (R)*, Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D), Patrick Ahrens (D), Juan Alanis (R), David Alvarez (D), Joaquin Arambula (D), Jasmeet Bains (D), Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D), Steve Bennett (D), Marc Berman (D), Blanca Rubio (D), Tasha Boerner Horvath (D), Isaac Bryan (D), Lisa Calderon (D), Jessica Caloza (D), Juan Carrillo (D), Leticia Castillo (R), Phillip Chen (R), Damon Connolly (D), Laurie Davies (R), Carl DeMaio (R), Diane Dixon (R), Sade Elhawary (D), Stan Ellis (R), Mike Fong (D), Jesse Gabriel (D), James Gallagher (R), Robert Garcia (D), Mike Gipson (D), Heather Hadwick (R), Matt Haney (D), John Harabedian (D), Gregg Hart (D), Josh Hoover (R), Jacqui Irwin (D), Corey Jackson (D), Jeff Gonzalez (R), Natasha Johnson (R), Maggy Krell (D), Tom Lackey (R), Josh Lowenthal (D), Alexandra Macedo (R), Mark González (D), Tina McKinnor (D), Michelle Rodriguez (D), Al Muratsuchi (D), Stephanie Nguyen (D), Liz Ortega (D), Blanca Pacheco (D), Diane Papan (D), Darshana Patel (D), Joe Patterson (R), Gail Pellerin (D), Cottie Petrie-Norris (D), Sharon Quirk-Silva (D), James Ramos (D), Rhodesia Ransom (D), Robert Rivas (D), Chris Rogers (D), Kate Sanchez (R), Pilar Schiavo (D), Nick Schultz (D), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), Jose Solache (D), Catherine Stefani (D), Tri Ta (R), David Tangipa (R), Avelino Valencia (D), Greg Wallis (R), Chris Ward (D), Lori Wilson (D), Rick Zbur (D), Anamarie Avila Farias (D)

*This concurrent resolution recognizes April 21, 2026, as National Rendering Day. The resolution highlights the critical role that renderers play in ensuring that California can meet the growing global demand for food, feed, and fuel, while helping to reduce food waste and loss.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 112, Statutes of 2026.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Damon Connolly (D)*, Dawn Addis (D), Cecilia Aguiar-Curry (D), Patrick Ahrens (D), Juan Alanis (R), David Alvarez (D), Jasmeet Bains (D), Rebecca Bauer-Kahan (D), Steve Bennett (D), Marc Berman (D), Catherine Blakespear (D), Blanca Rubio (D), Tasha Boerner Horvath (D), Mia Bonta (D), Isaac Bryan (D), Lisa Calderon (D), Jessica Caloza (D), Juan Carrillo (D), Leticia Castillo (R), Laurie Davies (R), Carl DeMaio (R), Diane Dixon (R), Sade Elhawary (D), Stan Ellis (R), Mike Fong (D), Jesse Gabriel (D), James Gallagher (R), Robert Garcia (D), Mike Gipson (D), Heather Hadwick (R), Matt Haney (D), John Harabedian (D), Jacqui Irwin (D), Corey Jackson (D), Jeff Gonzalez (R), Natasha Johnson (R), Ash Kalra (D), Maggy Krell (D), Tom Lackey (R), Alex Lee (D), Josh Lowenthal (D), Alexandra Macedo (R), Mark González (D), Tina McKinnor (D), Michelle Rodriguez (D), Al Muratsuchi (D), Stephanie Nguyen (D), Liz Ortega (D), Blanca Pacheco (D), Diane Papan (D), Darshana Patel (D), Joe Patterson (R), Gail Pellerin (D), Sharon Quirk-Silva (D), James Ramos (D), Rhodesia Ransom (D), Robert Rivas (D), Chris Rogers (D), Kate Sanchez (R), Pilar Schiavo (D), Nick Schultz (D), LaShae Sharp-Collins (D), Jose Solache (D), Esmeralda Soria (D), Catherine Stefani (D), Tri Ta (R), David Tangipa (R), Lori Wilson (D), Rick Zbur (D), Anamarie Avila Farias (D)

*This resolution declares that the week of May 3, 2026, to May 9, 2026, inclusive, is designated as Compost Awareness Week. The resolution recognizes compost as an effective form of resource recovery, waste reduction, reuse and recycling, and pollution reduction.

Chaptered by Secretary of State - Res. Chapter 114, Statutes of 2026.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

This bill amends the Budget Act of 2025. This bill appropriates $15,800,000 to be available to support meal donation programs, food pantries serving students, CalFresh enrollment, and other means of directly providing nutrition assistance to students.

Re-referred to Com. on BUDGET pursuant to Assembly Rule 97.

This bill establishes a comprehensive education finance omnibus bill for the 2025-26 fiscal year. The bill creates allowances for funding provided to local education agencies for food waste reduction training and professional development.

From committee with author's amendments. Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on BUDGET.

This measure allocates $400,000,000 to local educational agencies to be used for resources to implement innovative strategies that increase access and participation of the universal school meals program and food assistance for pupils who are or may be experiencing food insecurity, and increased coordination with community services providing food assistance. The money can also be allocated for the establishment or expansion of food pantries on school sites, which may serve pupils and their family members, among other things.

Re-referred to Com. on BUDGET pursuant to Assembly Rule 97.

Sasha Perez (D)*, Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R)*, Susan Rubio (D)*, Monique Limón (D), Henry Stern (D)

This bill states that the legislature declares that school garden-based instruction provides an interactive, hands-on learning environment in which pupils learn fundamental concepts about nutrition and diabetes prevention, the cultural and historical aspects of our food supply, a better understanding and appreciation of where food comes from, how food travels from the farm to the table, the important role of agriculture in the state, national, and global economy, and the importance of composting organic waste as part of a statewide effort to reduce the current rate of organic waste comprising 48 percent of landfill waste, to help meet California's 75-percent overall recycling goal, and to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases through reductions in landfilling organic waste.

Returned to Secretary of Senate pursuant to Joint Rule 56.

Marie Alvarado-Gil (R)*, Juan Alanis (R), Steven Choi (R), Megan Dahle (R), Alexandra Macedo (R), Roger Niello (R), Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh (R), Kelly Seyarto (R), Suzette Martinez Valladares (R)

This bill extends the tax credits that allow qualified taxpayers a credit in an amount equal to 15% of the qualified value of fresh fruits or vegetables and specified raw agricultural products or processed foods donated to a food bank. The credits are extended indefinitely. Additionally, the bill extends the reporting requirements for the Franchise Tax Board relating to the utilization of these credits to December 1, 2035.

June 29 hearing. Held in committee and under submission.

This bill currently states that tt is the intent of the Legislature to enact future legislation that would promote the recycling of organic byproducts by increasing the opportunities for organic byproducts to be recycled into livestock feed.

Returned to Secretary of Senate pursuant to Joint Rule 56.

Jerry McNerney (D)*, Marie Alvarado-Gil (R), Laura Richardson (D)

This bill extends the authorization for the tax credit allowing qualified taxpayers an amount equal to 15% of the qualified value of fresh fruits or vegetables and specified raw agricultural products or processed foods donated to a food bank for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2032. Additionally the Bill extends the Franchise Tax Board reporting requirements relating to this tax credit to January 1, 2037. In a recent amendment, the bill further amended existing law authorizing individuals to contribute amounts in excess of their personal income tax liability for the support of funds that include the Emergency Food for Families Voluntary Tax Contribution Fund. This bill now extends the provisions applying to that fund until January 1, 2033.

Read second time and amended. Re-referred to Com. on APPR.

Melissa Hurtado (D)*, Jessica Caloza (D), Celeste Rodriguez (D)

This bill creates the Office of Food Security and Affordability, an independent public entity not affiliated with another state agency, to be administered by a Director of Food Security and Affordability. The director must be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. This office is responsible for collaborating with appropriate state agencies to coordinate statewide outreach for food insecurity programs, establish and maintain a 24-hour toll-free hunger hotline, and establish best practices for food banks and emergency food providers to reduce food waste and increase the distribution of fresh produce and protein-rich foods. The bill would create the Food Security and Affordability Fund for the receipt and deposit of moneys from federal, state, local, or private sources, and upon appropriation by the Legislature, would authorize the office to use those moneys to implement and administer its programming.

From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 8. Noes 0.) (June 23). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.

This bill would require a product that is compostable to be labeled in a manner that distinguishes the product from non-compostable products upon reasonable inspection by consumers and by solid waste processing facilities during receiving and processing. The bill would require a plastic product that meets certain ASTM standard specifications regarding the compostability of plastics to be labeled with the word “compostable,” as specified.Existing law prohibits a person from selling or offering for sale a product that is labeled with the term “biodegradable,” “degradable,” or “decomposable,” or any form of those terms, or in any way implies that the product will break down, fragment, biodegrade, or decompose in a landfill or other environment, except as provided. The bill additionally apply that prohibition to any product that is labeled with the term “compostable except in California”. This bill would require the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment to conduct a study evaluating the health effects of degraded compostable plastics and their additives, as provided. The bill would require the office to provide biennial status updates, which may include a compilation of the study findings into a report, and to post the final report on its internet website.

From committee: Do pass and re-refer to Com. on APPR. (Ayes 10. Noes 4.) (June 22). Re-referred to Com. on APPR.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement, Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Environment Committee, Aundre Bumgardner (D), Joe Gresko (D), Geraldo Reyes (D), Steven Winter (D), Nicholas Gauthier (D), Josh Elliott (D), Amy Morrin Bello (D), Kate Farrar (D), Dominique Johnson (D), Kerry Wood (D), Julie Kushner (D), Martha Marx (D), Nicholas Menapace (D), Pat Dillon (D), Melissa Osborne (D), Michael Shannon (D), Laurie Sweet (D), Cristin McCarthy Vahey (D), Lucy Dathan (D), Eleni Kavros DeGraw (D), Anne Hughes (D), Hector Arzeno (D), John-Michael Parker (D), Sarah Keitt (D), Savet Constantine (D), Eilish Collins Main (D), Bobby Gibson (D), Mary LaMark Muir (D), Jane Garibay (D)

This measure expands the number of entities required to source-separate organic material from the solid waste stream. Specifically, on and after July 1, 2027, any entity that generates an average projected volume of not less than twenty-six tons per year of source- separated organic materials shall: Separate such source-separated organic materials from other solid waste; and ensure that such source-separated organic materials are recycled at any authorized source-separated organic material composting facility that has available capacity and that will accept such source-separated organic material. This bill also requires any entity subject to the commercial organics diversion requirements to prioritize the donation of surplus edible food for human consumption prior to the use of recycling, composting, aerobic digestion, anaerobic digestion or disposal. These entities must adopt and maintain a written policy establishing procedures for the safe storage, handling and transfer of such food for donation.

House LCO Amendment #5640 (J) - House LCO Amendment #5640 (J)

Adjourned 5/6/26.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement, Reporting

Public Health Committee, Michael Shannon (D), Martha Marx (D)

This bill requires the development of protocols regarding the donation of surplus edible food by retail food establishments to food distribution organizations. By January 1, 2027, the Commissioner of Consumer Protection, in consultation with the Commissioner of Public Health, must develop and implement guidelines for supermarkets to donate surplus edible food to food distribution organizations throughout the state using a food recovery service and post such guidelines on the Department of Consumer Protection's Internet web site. No later than January 1, 2028, and annually thereafter, each supermarket must report to the Commissioner of Consumer Protection, in a form and manner prescribed by the commissioner, regarding its donation of surplus edible food in accordance with the guidelines developed.

Adjourned 5/6/26.

*This bill, effective October 1, 2026, redefines "Class I renewable energy source" to exclude biomass facilities, meaning electricity generated from biomass will no longer be classified as a Class I renewable energy source. This change impacts existing laws that define what qualifies as a renewable energy source for the state, specifically removing biomass facilities from this designation unless they had agreements in place before October 1, 2025, with specific conditions regarding fuel sustainability and emissions, or had a capacity under five hundred kilowatts and began construction before July 1, 2003. The bill also revises provisions related to "existing biomass power purchase agreements" and "eligible biomass facilities," which are defined based on specific criteria for biomass fuel use, emissions, and prior agreements, and allows for new power purchase agreements for eligible biomass facilities under certain conditions, but these new agreements will not include "environmental attributes" and will begin after existing agreements terminate, lasting no more than ten years.

Senate LCO Amendment #6108 (R) - Senate LCO Amendment #6108 (R)

Adjourned 5/6/26.

Schools, Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Janeese George (D)*, Charles Allen (D)*, Brianne Nadeau (D)*, Christina Henderson (I)*, Trayon White (D)*, Brooke Pinto (D)*

*This bill mandates that by January 1, 2027, all District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) and public charter schools, including their food service providers, must separate food waste for composting and collection, amending the Sustainable Solid Waste Management Amendment Act of 2014. The Department of Public Works (DPW) will be responsible for providing guidance, technical assistance, and enforcement, while the Department of General Services will ensure schools have the necessary bins, signage, and infrastructure for organics collection, coordinating with public charter schools to provide similar support. The Office of the State Superintendent of Education will help implement these changes within school meal programs and facilitate the reporting of data to the DPW. The Mayor must issue rules for implementation, including a process for addressing non-compliance, and the DPW will report annually to the Council on compliance, contamination, technical assistance, corrective actions, and barriers to food donation. Additionally, the bill amends the Healthy Schools Act of 2010 to enhance reporting requirements for schools regarding their efforts to donate excess edible food, including details on donation practices, partners, barriers, and steps taken to increase donations, with this information being integrated into existing school health reporting systems and transmitted to the DPW for inclusion in their annual report.

Referred to Committee on Public Works and Operations

*This bill amends Title 3 of the Delaware Code to explicitly permit composting activities on agricultural-zoned properties. Specifically, the bill allows landowners to divert and compost yard waste, food waste, and other organic materials for commercial purposes. The legislation stipulates that local governments can restrict the size of composting areas but must permit at least 5,000 square feet of composting space per 4 acres of property. Additionally, the bill authorizes the Department of Agriculture to develop regulations governing these composting activities.

Introduced and Assigned to Agriculture Committee in House

Adjourned 6/30/26.

*This bill amends allows for the commercial composting of yard waste, food residuals, and other organic materials on private properties that are zoned for Agricultural Conservation, located outside the designated "growth zone" (areas intended for future development), and are at least 4 acres in size. While this bill permits such composting activities, it also grants county governments the authority to set limits on the square footage dedicated to these composting operations, but they must allow for a minimum of 5,000 square feet for such activities.

Adjourned 6/30/26.

The legislation requires the Department of Education to develop a policy requiring school districts to:

1. Develop a partnership with a local nonprofit organization or food bank to redistribute edible cafeteria food and divert organic food waste to a composting program.
2. Install a sorting system for cafeteria waste, subject to legislative appropriation.
3. Gradually eliminate single-use plastics by replacing them with reusable or compostable alternatives, subject to legislative appropriation.

The policy must be adopted by 25% of the schools districts by the beginning of the 2027-2028 school year and then subsequently adopted by 100% of school districts in the state by the beginning of the 2029-2030 school year.

Died in Education Administration Subcommittee

Adjourned 3/13/26.

This bill requires the Department of Education to establishe a three-year pilot program, beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, to reduce food and plastic waste in up to 10% of schools within any school district. The Department of Education will develop this program in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Farm to School initiative, and it must include the following: A partnership with a local nonprofit organization or food bank to redistribute edible cafeteria food and divert organic food waste to a composting program; installation of a sorting system for cafeteria waste,subject to legislative appropriation; installation of a dishwashing system, with priority given to schools that previously operated a dishwashing system, subject to legislative appropriation; and elimination of single-use plastics by replacing them with stainless steel reusable serving ware. Each participating school district must submit and annual report to the Department of Education by the end of each school year.

Adjourned 3/13/26.

Spencer Frye (D)*, Stacey Evans (D)*, Eric Gisler (D)*, Gabriel Sanchez (D)*, Eric Bell (D)*, Bryce Berry (D)*

*This bill, known as the "Donation Without Hesitation Act," aims to encourage the donation of food by limiting the legal liability of those who donate and those who accept food for charitable purposes. Specifically, it expands the definition of a "donor" to include a wider range of individuals and organizations, and clarifies that a "gleaner" is someone who harvests donated crops for distribution. The core provision states that donors and gleaners will not face criminal penalties or civil damages for donating food that is apparently fit for human consumption, even if it doesn't meet certain safety standards or isn't readily marketable due to appearance or other factors, unless the injury was caused by their gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct, and they acted in good faith and informed the recipient of the food's condition. Similarly, charitable organizations that accept such food will also be protected from liability unless their own gross negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct causes an injury, provided they accepted or distributed the donation in good faith. This protection applies to food donated to churches, religious organizations, or bona fide charitable or nonprofit organizations. The bill also clarifies that it does not prevent lawful agencies from regulating or banning food use. This Act will become effective on July 1, 2026, and will apply to legal actions that arise on or after that date.

Adjourned 4/2/26.

Segun Adeyina (D)*, Todd Jones (R)*, Kim Schofield (D)*, Arlene Beckles (D)*, Viola Davis (D)*, Derrick McCollum (R)*

*This bill, known as the Georgia Resource Exchange and Sharing for Community Uplift and Emergency Resilience (RESCUER) Act, authorizes local governments in Georgia to create "resource recovery programs" aimed at reducing hunger and food waste. These programs will utilize a digital platform to connect individuals, food banks, restaurants, and grocery stores within a local community to share food. The bill specifies that the digital platform must allow governments to limit participation to members of the local community. Any member of the local community who in good faith shares food through a resource recovery program and a digital platform used for a resource recovery program shall not be subject to criminal penalty or civil damages arising from the condition of the food, unless injury is caused by the recklessness or intentional misconduct of such member of the local community.

Adjourned 4/2/26.

Segun Adeyina (D)*, Todd Jones (R)*, Brad Thomas (R)*, Dar'shun Kendrick (D)*, Brian Prince (D)*, Long Tran (D)*

This resolution recognizes the importance of voluntary community based resource recovery efforts through the RESCUER initiative and encourages counties and municipal corporations in this state to explore voluntary resource recovery programs utilizing digital platforms to facilitate food sharing within local communities.

Adjourned 4/2/26.

Segun Adeyina (D)*, Todd Jones (R)*, Long Tran (D)*, Stacey Evans (D)*, Brad Thomas (R)*

This resolution recognizes the importance of voluntary community efforts to recover and share food resources, particularly through the RESCUER initiative, which stands for Georgia Resource Exchange and Sharing for Community Uplift and Emergency Resilience, for the initiative and utilization of digital platforms to facilitate food sharing within local communities.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 4/2/26.

Trish La Chica (D)*, Cory Chun (D)*, Diamond Garcia (R)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Lisa Kitagawa (D)*, Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D)*, Nicole Lowen (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Sean Quinlan (D)*, Kanani Souza (R)*, Chris Todd (D)*

*This legislation requires the Department of Education to authorize and facilitate complex areas or individual public schools to form their own farm to school meal programs through partnerships with non-profit organizations or private entitiesto meet the local farm to school meal goal of 30% of food served in the school to consist of locally sourced products by 2030. Additionally, it allows the Department of Education to establish a plant-based meal program no later than the 2026-2027 school year.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

This legislation requires the Department of Health to adopt or amend rules to establish a classification system for composting facilities or operations. It allows for composting and co-composting in agricultural districts, including on lands with class A or class B soils.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement

*This bill establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to expand meat processing capacity in Hawaii, with a specific focus on processing meat from axis deer (an invasive species) and other wild game. The program aims to help smaller ranchers and hunters donate meat to non-profit food distribution services, thereby enhancing food security. Grant recipients must be licensed or accredited, provide detailed project plans, use funds exclusively for program purposes, and meet various compliance requirements, including non-discrimination standards and proper record-keeping. Applicants must have already spent money toward expanding meat processing capacity and cannot receive grants for costs incurred more than five years prior. The bill allows DBEDT to collaborate with other state departments like Agriculture, Land and Natural Resources, and Health in developing the program. While the specific dollar amount for grants is not specified in the bill text, funds will be appropriated from general state revenues for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027. The program includes provisions for administrative rules, application review, and monitoring to ensure proper use of grant funds. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Elle Cochran (D)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Trish La Chica (D)*, Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Adrian Tam (D)*

*This bill aims to enhance Hawaii's food supply chain resilience by establishing a new income tax credit and streamlining permitting processes for food and beverage businesses. The tax credit will provide qualified taxpayers, including farmers, processors, distributors, retailers, and food banks, with a refundable credit equal to 40% of their qualified food and beverage supply chain costs, up to a maximum amount (specific amount not specified in the bill). The total tax credits available are capped at $2,000,000 per year, with at least 25% reserved for small-scale producers and community-based organizations. Qualified expenses include labor costs, infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases, utilities, and food donation program development. The Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) will administer the program, maintain records, establish performance metrics, and issue certificates to taxpayers. Additionally, the bill requires DBEDT to create expedited permitting processes for food and beverage supply chain projects, with a commitment to review and approve permits within 180 days of submission. The bill recognizes Hawaii's vulnerability to supply chain disruptions due to geographic isolation and aims to increase local food production, reduce food insecurity, and prepare the state for potential emergencies by supporting local food system businesses. The tax credit will be applicable to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Amy Perruso (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Nicole Lowen (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Elijah Pierick (R)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Sean Quinlan (D)*, Kanani Souza (R)*, Adrian Tam (D)*, Chris Todd (D)*

*This bill establishes comprehensive goals and requirements for organic waste reduction in Hawaii, targeting a significant decrease in solid waste disposal through a phased approach. The legislation defines organic waste as compostable or biodegradable materials from plants or animals and sets progressive benchmarks for different types of waste generators to divert their organic waste. Starting January 1, 2027, large food-related businesses and vendors generating at least one ton of waste per week will be required to divert their organic waste, with subsequent tiers expanding to restaurants, schools, and state agencies by 2030, multi-family complexes by 2034, and ultimately banning all organic waste from landfills and co-generation plants by 2040. The bill also updates the state's waste reduction goals, increasing the target from 25% to 40% reduction by 2027 and from 50% to 70% reduction by 2035, aligning with the Aloha+ Challenge and United Nations Sustainable Development goals. Additionally, the legislation requires counties to incorporate these new organic waste diversion requirements into their solid waste management plans and provides funding for implementation, with the ultimate aim of dramatically reducing Hawaii's waste stream through source reduction, recycling, and bioconversion methods.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Cory Chun (D)*, Luke Evslin (D)*, Andrew Garrett (D)*, Tina Grandinetti (D)*, Daniel Holt (D)*, Kim Iwamoto (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Matthias Kusch (D)*, Michael Lee (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)*, Tyson Miyake (D)*, Dee Morikawa (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Sean Quinlan (D)*, Jenna Takenouchi (D)*, Adrian Tam (D)*, David Tarnas (D)*, Chris Todd (D)*

*This bill establishes a Statewide Interagency Food Systems Coordination Team and an Interagency Food Systems Working Group within the Department of Agriculture to address Hawaii's food system challenges. The working group will include representatives from various state agencies, including agriculture, business development, education, health, Hawaiian affairs, planning, and agribusiness, as well as legislative members. The group's responsibilities include developing governance protocols, coordinating with county and community food system planning, identifying resources, creating implementation plans, and measuring progress toward statewide food system goals such as minimizing food waste. The bill recognizes Hawaii's ongoing efforts to improve local food production, food security, and sustainability, noting that nearly one-third of households are currently food insecure. The working group is required to submit annual reports to the Legislature and will be supported administratively by the Department of Agriculture. The bill also includes an appropriation to hire personnel and support the group's operations, with funds allocated for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to cover expenses such as stakeholder coordination, public meetings, and information management.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Tyson Miyake (D)*, Elle Cochran (R)*, Darius Kila (D)*, Matthias Kusch (D)*, Rachele Fernandez Lamosao (D)*, Kanani Souza (R)*, Gregg Takayama (D)*, Adrian Tam (D)*, David Tarnas (D)*, Scot Matayoshi (D)

*This bill creates a specific exemption in Hawaii's meat inspection laws to allow hunters to donate wild game meat, specifically including axis deer, to charitable, religious, or nonprofit organizations for feeding needy individuals. The bill defines "wild game" as non-indigenous animal species that are not domesticated and are harvested in the wild. The exemption permits the slaughtering, transportation, and custom preparation of wild game meat without standard meat inspection requirements, with the important caveat that the wild game cannot be combined with other regulated meat products. The bill allows transportation of wild game only between specific locations: where the animal was killed, the processing establishment, and the charitable organization. The legislation also preserves the authority of the departments of health and agriculture to regulate, inspect, or ban donated foods for human consumption. The exemption is designed to facilitate food donation while maintaining basic safety considerations, and the bill is set to take effect on December 31, 2050.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Nicole Lowen (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Shirley Ann Templo (D)*, Chris Todd (D)*

This resolution requests the Department of Health to conduct a study on recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling in the state to determine if the labeling is accurate and non-deceptive. The study must include:
(1) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that have the chasing arrows symbol, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually recyclable in the State;
(2) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as biodegradable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually biodegradable in the State;
(3) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as compostable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually compostable in the State;
(4) An examination of the distinction between home compostable and industrial compostable products, and whether such products meet recognized industry standards, such as ASTM International standards for compostability;
(5) An analysis of the gaps between consumer expectations, product labeling practices, and actual recycling and composting capabilities and outcomes in the State;
(6) An analysis of common contaminants that may be introduced into the recycling stream, composting facilities, or the environment due to misleading or unclear recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling;
(7) A review of existing standards, definitions, and labeling guidelines for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable products, including but not limited to ASTM International standards, the Federal Trade Commission's Green Guides, and any relevant state or municipal guidelines; and
(8) Recommendations for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling standards or guidelines to enhance clarity, reduce contamination, and improve recycling and composting rates.

Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0).

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Nicole Lowen (D)*, Terez Amato (D)*, Della Belatti (D)*, Kirstin Kahaloa (D)*, Jeanné Kapela (D)*, Susan Keohokapu-Lee Loy (D)*, Lisa Marten (D)*, Ikaika Olds (D)*, Amy Perruso (D)*, Mahina Poepoe (D)*, Shirley Ann Templo (D)*, Chris Todd (D)*

This resolution requests the Department of Health to conduct a study on recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling in the state to determine if the labeling is accurate and non-deceptive. The study must include:
(1) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that have the chasing arrows symbol, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually recyclable in the State;
(2) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as biodegradable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually biodegradable in the State;
(3) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as compostable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually compostable in the State;
(4) An examination of the distinction between home compostable and industrial compostable products, and whether such products meet recognized industry standards, such as ASTM International standards for compostability;
(5) An analysis of the gaps between consumer expectations, product labeling practices, and actual recycling and composting capabilities and outcomes in the State;
(6) An analysis of common contaminants that may be introduced into the recycling stream, composting facilities, or the environment due to misleading or unclear recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling;
(7) A review of existing standards, definitions, and labeling guidelines for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable products, including but not limited to ASTM International standards, the Federal Trade Commission's Green Guides, and any relevant state or municipal guidelines; and
(8) Recommendations for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling standards or guidelines to enhance clarity, reduce contamination, and improve recycling and composting rates.

Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN with none voting aye with reservations; none voting no (0) and none excused (0).

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Mike Gabbard (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Carol Fukunaga (D), Joy San Buenaventura (D)

This legislation requires the Department of Education to authorize and facilitate complex areas or individual department schools to form their own farm to school meal programs through partnerships to meet the local farm to school meal goal of 30% of food served in the school to consist of locally sourced products by 2030. Additionally, it allows the Department of Education to establish a plant-based meal program no later than the 2026-2027 school year.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

This legislation requires the Department of Health to adopt or amend rules to establish a classification system for composting facilities or operations. The bill allows composting and co-composting in an agricultural district, including on lands with class A or class B soils.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Carol Fukunaga (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Lynn DeCoite (D)*, Kurt Fevella (R)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*

*This bill aims to enhance Hawaii's food supply chain resilience by establishing a new tax credit program and expediting permitting processes for food and beverage businesses. The bill creates a refundable income tax credit equal to 40% of qualified food and beverage supply chain costs, with a total annual cap of $2,000,000 across all qualified taxpayers. The credit covers expenses such as labor costs, infrastructure improvements, equipment purchases, utilities, and food donation program development for businesses involved in food production, processing, distribution, storage, and retailing. The Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) will manage the credit program, including registering taxpayers, maintaining records, and certifying eligible costs. Additionally, the bill requires DBEDT to establish expedited permitting processes for food-related projects, mandating that permits for building storage facilities, expanding retail operations, and establishing agricultural infrastructure be reviewed and approved within 180 days. The legislature justifies these measures by highlighting Hawaii's vulnerability to supply chain disruptions due to geographic isolation and the need to improve local food production and food security, particularly given that one in three Hawaii residents experience food insecurity.*.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Mike Gabbard (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Dru Kanuha (D)*, Michelle Kidani (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Karl Rhoads (D)*, Tim Richards (D)*, Joy San Buenaventura (D)

*This bill establishes a comprehensive plan to reduce organic waste in Hawaii by creating a phased approach to diverting organic waste from landfills. The bill defines organic waste as compostable or biodegradable materials from plants or animals, including food waste, green waste, and untreated wood waste. It sets progressive benchmarks for different types of businesses and organizations to divert organic waste, starting with large food vendors and distributors in 2027, expanding to restaurants and educational institutions in 2032, and including multi-family complexes by 2036. The ultimate goal is to completely ban organic waste from landfills and co-generation plants by 2037. The bill updates the state's existing waste reduction goals, increasing the target from 25% to 40% waste reduction by 2027 and from 50% to 70% by 2032. To support implementation, the bill requires each county to incorporate these new organic waste diversion requirements into their solid waste management plans and appropriates funds to help counties revise their plans. This legislation is part of Hawaii's efforts to meet United Nations Sustainable Development goals and the Aloha+ Challenge, which aims to significantly reduce the state's solid waste stream through various waste reduction and diversion strategies.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Mike Gabbard (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Carol Fukunaga (D)*

*This bill establishes a comprehensive plan to reduce organic waste in Hawaii by creating a phased approach to diverting biodegradable materials from landfills. The legislation sets increasingly stringent benchmarks for different types of businesses and organizations to separate and divert organic waste, starting with large food vendors and distributors in 2026, expanding to restaurants and educational agencies in 2030, and eventually including multifamily complexes by 2034. By 2035, the bill will completely ban organic waste from landfills and co-generation plants, including waste from single-family homes. The bill defines "organic waste" as compostable materials from plants or animals, such as green waste, food waste, and untreated wood. It also updates the state's existing waste reduction goals, increasing the target from 25% to 40% waste reduction by 2026 and from 50% to 70% by 2030. To support implementation, the bill requires counties to incorporate these new organic waste diversion requirements into their solid waste management plans and provides state funding to help counties adapt to the new regulations. The overall goal is to align with the Aloha+ Challenge and United Nations Sustainable Development goals for waste reduction and environmental sustainability.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Samantha DeCorte (R)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D)*, Lorraine Inouye (D)*

This legislation requires the Department of Education to establish a food waste composting pilot project at Nanakuli High and Intermediate School.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement, Funding

*This bill establishes a grant program administered by the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to expand meat processing capacity in Hawaii, with a specific focus on creating opportunities for processing meat from invasive axis deer and other wild game. The program will provide financial assistance to new or existing meat processing facilities that are willing to accept meat donations from hunters, with applicants required to meet several detailed criteria including being properly licensed, providing a comprehensive project plan, agreeing to use funds exclusively for program purposes, and complying with non-discrimination and legal requirements. Hunters who donate meat will be granted access to facilities receiving grant funds. The bill also appropriates funding for the grant program and establishes two full-time equivalent (FTE) meat inspector positions to support the initiative. The underlying motivation is to address the current limited meat processing capacity in the state, which prevents hunters and smaller ranchers from effectively utilizing wild game meat, while simultaneously addressing the environmental challenge posed by invasive axis deer populations. The grant program aims to enhance food security and provide a constructive solution to managing invasive species by creating a structured pathway for processing and potentially distributing donated wild game meat. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2050.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

*This bill creates a new exemption in Hawaii's meat inspection laws to allow hunters to donate wild game, specifically non-native species like axis deer, to charitable, religious, or nonprofit organizations that serve needy persons. The bill permits the slaughtering, preparation, and transportation of wild game meat without standard meat inspection requirements, with some important conditions: the wild game cannot be combined with other regulated meat products, and its transportation is limited to specific locations (where the animal was killed, processing establishments, and the charitable organization). The bill defines "wild game" as non-indigenous species and includes their carcasses, parts, and meat products. The legislation also ensures that state health and agriculture departments retain their authority to regulate, inspect, or ban donated foods for human consumption. While most of the bill's provisions appear technical, its practical effect is to make it easier for hunters to donate non-native game meat to organizations that feed people in need, potentially reducing food waste and helping community support efforts. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2050.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Mike Gabbard (D)*, Stanley Chang (D)*, Karl Rhoads (D)*, Carol Fukunaga (D), Joy San Buenaventura (D)

*This bill establishes statewide goals for reducing the amount of solid waste sent to landfills and specifically for diverting organic waste, which includes compostable or biodegradable materials like food scraps and green waste. It revises existing state mandates to set new targets for overall solid waste reduction, aiming for a 40% reduction by 2038 and a 70% reduction by 2043, and introduces new, ambitious goals for organic waste diversion, with a complete 100% reduction from landfills by 2038. To achieve these goals, the bill requires county integrated solid waste management plans to include a component that assesses current waste reduction efforts, identifies feasible recycling and bioconversion opportunities, and specifically identifies methods to meet the new organic waste reduction targets, while also considering the risk of transporting invasive species within organic waste.

Act 173, on 06/26/2026 (Gov. Msg. No. 1275).

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 5/8/26.

Stanley Chang (D)*, Brandon Elefante (D)*, Mike Gabbard (D)*, Angus McKelvey (D)*, Sharon Moriwaki (D), Tim Richards (D)

*This bill, known as the "Hawaii Environmentally Friendly Schools Act," mandates that the Department of Education develop and implement a statewide environmental stewardship curriculum plan for public schools, requiring that an environmental stewardship course be offered to students starting in the 2027-2028 school year, with the curriculum emphasizing the protection of natural resources, waste reduction, and the Hawaiian cultural value of *malama aina* (caring for the land). The bill also requires the Department of Education to establish and administer sustainability programs, including recycling and composting, at public schools, and mandates that the department report on the progress of these initiatives to the Legislature and the Board of Education, with funds appropriated to support these programs.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

This resolution requests the Department of Health to conduct a study on recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling in the state to determine if the labeling is accurate and non-deceptive. The study must include:
(1) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that have the chasing arrows symbol, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually recyclable in the State;
(2) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as biodegradable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually biodegradable in the State;
(3) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as compostable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually compostable in the State;
(4) An examination of the distinction between home compostable and industrial compostable products, and whether such products meet recognized industry standards, such as ASTM International standards for compostability;
(5) An analysis of the gaps between consumer expectations, product labeling practices, and actual recycling and composting capabilities and outcomes in the State;
(6) An analysis of common contaminants that may be introduced into the recycling stream, composting facilities, or the environment due to misleading or unclear recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling;
(7) A review of existing standards, definitions, and labeling guidelines for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable products, including but not limited to ASTM International standards, the Federal Trade Commission's Green Guides, and any relevant state or municipal guidelines; and
(8) Recommendations for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling standards or guidelines to enhance clarity, reduce contamination, and improve recycling and composting rates.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

This resolution requests the Department of Health to conduct a study on recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling in the state to determine if the labeling is accurate and non-deceptive. The study must include:
(1) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that have the chasing arrows symbol, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually recyclable in the State;
(2) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as biodegradable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually biodegradable in the State;
(3) An assessment of products sold or distributed in Hawaii that are labeled as compostable, including an evaluation of the types of such products that are or are not actually compostable in the State;
(4) An examination of the distinction between home compostable and industrial compostable products, and whether such products meet recognized industry standards, such as ASTM International standards for compostability;
(5) An analysis of the gaps between consumer expectations, product labeling practices, and actual recycling and composting capabilities and outcomes in the State;
(6) An analysis of common contaminants that may be introduced into the recycling stream, composting facilities, or the environment due to misleading or unclear recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling;
(7) A review of existing standards, definitions, and labeling guidelines for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable products, including but not limited to ASTM International standards, the Federal Trade Commission's Green Guides, and any relevant state or municipal guidelines; and
(8) Recommendations for recyclable, biodegradable, and compostable labeling standards or guidelines to enhance clarity, reduce contamination, and improve recycling and composting rates.

Adjourned 5/8/26.

*This legislation expands the energy infrastructure revolving loan program to include water infrastructure and creates a new regulatory framework for anaerobic digester systems, establishing comprehensive rules for their construction, operation, and digestate management. The legislation aims to support economic development, encourage energy innovation, protect agricultural lands, and provide clear guidelines for emerging energy technologies, with provisions that cover everything from nuclear power generation to manure-based biogas systems.

Subcommittee reassigned: Lundgren, James, Judge, Nordman and Vondran. H.J. 948.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

*This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for community anaerobic digester systems in Iowa, creating a new chapter of law to govern the processing of organic materials into renewable fuel and nutrient-rich digestate. The bill defines an anaerobic digester system as an off-farm facility that primarily processes manure from agricultural operations, along with other organic feedstocks, to produce biogas (a renewable energy source) and digestate (a nutrient-rich material that can be applied to cropland). Key provisions include requiring construction permits from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), establishing detailed separation distance requirements for digester structures and digestate application to protect air and water quality, mandating specific storage and handling protocols for digester manure, feedstock, and digestate, and implementing record-keeping requirements for system operators. The bill also sets civil penalty guidelines for violations, with penalties up to $10,000 per violation, and includes provisions for waiving certain separation distance requirements. The overall purpose is to promote community-based renewable energy production and sustainable nutrient recycling while ensuring environmental protections through comprehensive regulatory oversight.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

*This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for anaerobic digester systems in Iowa, focusing on the storage, processing, and application of manure, digester feedstock, and digestate. The bill defines numerous technical terms related to anaerobic digestion, including different types of manure, feedstock, and digestate, and provides detailed requirements for constructing, operating, and managing these systems. The department of natural resources is tasked with creating rules and conducting inspections to ensure compliance, with penalties for violations that will be credited to the Iowa nutrient research fund. The bill takes effect immediately and directs the department to continue regulating these systems in a manner consistent with existing practices until new administrative rules are fully implemented.

Subcommittee: Driscoll, Zimmer, and Zumbach. S.J. 549.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

This bill establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for community anaerobic digester systems in Iowa.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 834.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

This bill creates a new subchapter shielding a food dealer or the owner of a commercial vehicle from civil liability when donating food to an Iowa food bank association. The shield from civil liability applies to a food dealer when preparing or distributing the food under the regulatory authority of the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), or the Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (DALS). The shield also applies to the owner of a commercial vehicle when transporting such food. However, the shield only applies under certain circumstances. The food dealer or owner must not have had actual knowledge that the food would likely cause harm to an individual consuming the food in a normal manner. The shield only applies to a food dealer or to an owner of a commercial vehicle operating under a valid license. In addition, the food dealer or commercial vehicle owner must comply with required time and temperature controls for safety to limit pathogenic microorganism growth or toxin formation. The food dealer or owner cannot have declared the evidently safe food to be unsafe, or intentionally falsely advertised the evidently safe food. Evidently safe food is defined as food that a reasonable person would consider to be safe to consume, if such person had all information regarding why the food could be considered unfit or unmarketable for retail sale due to a failure to comply with health and safety requirements. Evidently safe food does not include food that is regulated as alcohol, or subject to a government-issued stop order or court-issued injunction. The measure provides for relevant definitions.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 590. S.J. 479.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

This bill stipulates that a person is exempt from criminal or civil liability for donating food to a charitable or nonprofit organization or to the department of natural resources or a county conservation board so long as the person is acting in good faith. The charitable or nonprofit organization must distribute the food free to needy individuals. The department of natural resources or a county conservation board must use the food as part of a free interpretive educational program. The Code section includes a list of persons who are expressly granted the exemption, including a gleaner, restaurant, food establishment, food service establishment, school, manufacturer of foodstuffs, or meat or poultry processing establishment. The bill provides that a food distributor is included in the list.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as SF 585.

Adjourned 5/3/26.

Hoan Huynh (D)*, Adriane Johnson (D)*, Kevin Olickal (D), Marty Moylan (D), Theresa Mah (D), Anne Stava-Murray (D), Joyce Mason (D), Lilian Jiménez (D), Sonya Harper (D), Rachel Ventura (D)

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act to establish comprehensive regulations for organic waste composting operations. It defines "organic waste" as "food scrap, uncontaminated wood waste, livestock waste, crop residue, paper waste, or other non-hazardous carbonaceous waste, other than landscape waste that is collected and processed separately from the rest of the municipal waste stream. Additionally, the bill stipulates that no person can conduct organic waste composting operations other than landscape composting operations without an agency permit unless: 1) the person is conducting an organic waste composting operation that has no more than 25 cubic yards of source-separated organic waste, composting additives, composting material, or end-product compost on-site at any one time and is not engaging in commercial activity; and 2) the persons conducting the operation meet certain siting and operational requirements.

Added as Alternate Chief Co-Sponsor Sen. Rachel Ventura

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Janet Yang Rohr (D)*, Laura Ellman (D)*, Suzanne Ness (D), Maura Hirschauer (D), Laura Faver Dias (D), Theresa Mah (D), Debbie Meyers-Martin (D)

This bill, effective August 1, 2027, allows a school district to comply with provisions concerning unused food sharing plans by implementing a share table. The bill permits the school district to develop and follow a policy of standard operating procedures for share tables.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

This bill creates the Healthy Soils Task Force Act and establishes the Healthy Soils Task Force in the Department of Agriculture. The bill sets forth the list of duties for the task force and allows the task force to consult with relevant agencies prior to submitting a report to the Legislature on or before December 31, 2027.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Anna Moeller (D)*, Adriane Johnson (D)*, Sonya Harper (D), Margaret DeLaRosa (D), Javier Cervantes (D)

*This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act to update definitions and regulations related to organic waste composting and anaerobic digestion, which is a process where microorganisms break down organic material without oxygen to produce biogas and digestate. It introduces new terms like "food waste," "organic material," and "organic waste," and clarifies definitions for "compost" and "composting." The bill creates exemptions for certain composting and anaerobic digestion facilities from pollution control facility regulations if they meet specific siting, setback, and operational requirements. It also establishes permitting requirements for organic waste composting and anaerobic digestion operations, with exemptions for small-scale operations and certain farm-based composting that adhere to volume limits and environmental safeguards. Additionally, anaerobic digesters using only non-waste materials are exempt from solid waste permitting, and their processed material is not regulated as waste if returned to the economy. The bill authorizes the Environmental Protection Agency to recommend, and the Pollution Control Board to adopt, performance standards for organic waste compost facilities and testing procedures for the final compost product, with a Technical Advisory Committee to assist in this process, ensuring that standards apply to compost offered for sale or use, while exempting residential composting.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

*This resolution declares the week of May 4 through May 10, 2025 as "Compost Awareness Week" in the State of Illinois, highlighting the significant environmental and community benefits of composting. The resolution emphasizes that composting is an effective waste reduction strategy, with organic materials comprising 30-40 percent of landfill waste, and explains that composting can include materials like yard trimmings, food scraps, and manures. It underscores the environmental advantages of composting, such as reducing water consumption by over 30 percent, conserving water during drought or flooding, decreasing dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and reducing erosion. The resolution also notes that composting creates green jobs, supports sustainable infrastructure, and for the 2025 event, carries the theme "Sustainable Communities Begin With Compost!" The document aims to raise awareness about the importance of composting in creating healthier food systems, supporting soil health, and contributing to a more sustainable world.

Rule 19(b) / Re-referred to Rules Committee

Adjourned 5/31/26.

*This resolution declares May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Compost Awareness Week in the State of Illinois, recognizing composting as a vital method for reducing waste, reusing organic materials like food scraps and yard trimmings, and recycling them into a beneficial product called compost. The resolution highlights that compost enriches soil, reduces water consumption, decreases reliance on chemical fertilizers, and helps prevent pollution, thereby supporting cleaner water, healthier soil, and climate change mitigation. It also acknowledges that composting creates jobs and infrastructure, and that International Compost Awareness Week, with its theme "Compost! Feed the Soil that Feeds Us!", aims to educate the public about the importance of composting for growing healthier food and fostering a more sustainable world.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 5/31/26.

*This bill designates the first full week of May as Compost Awareness Week in Illinois, aiming to recognize and promote the importance of composting. The bill provides context by highlighting several key findings about composting, including its environmental benefits: composting can reduce waste going to landfills (which currently contains about 30% organic materials), help conserve water by over 30%, decrease dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and reduce erosion and pollution. The bill notes that composting can create green jobs and infrastructure, and that International Compost Awareness Week is a global educational initiative supported by compost industry organizations. By establishing this official week of recognition, the legislation seeks to raise awareness about how composting can contribute to sustainable communities, improve soil health, and support environmental conservation efforts. The bill will encourage local governments, highway departments, soil conservation services, and public works professionals to recognize and promote composting's multiple ecological advantages.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Adriane Johnson (D)*, Mary Edly-Allen (D), Javier Cervantes (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Laura Ellman (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Willie Preston (D), Laura Fine (D), Laura Murphy (D)

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act by allowing the Environmental Protection Agency to provide grants to incentivize the use of finished compost, liquid digestate, and solid digestate on private and public lands used for commercial farm and specialty farm operations. The Agency will partner with the Prairie Research Institute of the University of Illinois to conduct a study of finished compost, liquid digestate, and solid digestate use over fiscal years 2026, 2027, and 2028, with a final report submitted to the General Assembly and Governor by December 1, 2028.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Composting/AD Permitting, Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Adriane Johnson (D)*, Mary Edly-Allen (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Laura Ellman (D), Laura Fine (D), Willie Preston (D), Laura Murphy (D), Dave Koehler (D), Mike Simmons (D), Lakesia Collins (D), Karina Villa (D), Julie Morrison (D), Mike Porfirio (D)

This legislation amends the Environmental Protection Act to defines the terms "anaerobic digester", "anaerobic digestion", and "food". The bill amends regulations relating to composting facility and anaerobic digesters by creating exemptions to the definitions of "pollution control facilities".

This bill further updates the requirements for each county waste management plan's recycling program with respect to food scrap collection programs. The bill stipulates that a person that generates more than the applicable regulatory threshold of food and food scrap and that is located within 20 miles, prior to July 1, 2035, or 25 miles, on and after July 1, 2035, of an Agency-permitted composting facility or anaerobic digester that accepts food scrap and that has the permitted capacity to accept food scrap shall, among other things, source separate food and food scrap from other solid waste and either arrange for the transfer of the food or food scrap to a location that manages food and food scrap in a manner consistent with the food and food scrap management hierarchy set forth in the Act or manage the food and food scrap on site in accordance with other applicable State and local laws and rules. The bill permits rulemaking as it relates to the above section.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

This bill amends the Illinois Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act by requiring the Department of Agriculture, in consultation with the Department of Public Health, must, on or before July 1, 2027, adopt rules requiring food product labels to contain information regarding the quality date of a product and the safety date of a product. The bill provides for exceptions for eggs, beer and other malt beverages, and as limited by federal law.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act by defining "organic waste" among other items. The bill prohibits a person from conducting an organic waste composting operation, other than a landscape waste composting operation, without an Agency permit. The bill exempts
(1) persons conducting an organic waste composting operation that (i) has no more than 25 cubic yards of source-separated organic waste, composting additives, composting material, or end-product compost on-site at any one time and (ii) is not engaging in commercial activity and (2) persons conducting an organic waste composting operation that meets certain siting and operational requirements from the permitting requirements.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Composting/AD Permitting, Reporting, Source Separation and Recycling Requirements

Adriane Johnson (D)*, Mary Edly-Allen (D), Graciela Guzmán (D), Dave Koehler (D), Rachel Ventura (D), Laura Murphy (D), Sara Feigenholtz (D), Javier Cervantes (D)

*This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act by defining the terms "anaerobic digester", "anaerobic digestion", "digestate", and "food waste processing facility". The bill replaces the definition of "food scrap" with the definition of "food waste" and replaces references to food scrap with references to food waste.

Additionally, the bill makes changes to provisions concerning pollution control facilities to exclude the portion of a site or facility that is used exclusively for the processing of food waste, with certain other requirements. An exception to these changes is make for the commingling of certain food waste and landscape waste from certain provisions regarding landscape waste. The bill further adds to the requirements for county waste management plan recycling programs.

This bill also changes the Illinois Solid Waste Management Act by establishing a food and food waste management hierarchy and mandates that "covered establishments" (defined by business type and size, with phased-in requirements) separate and manage their food waste according to this hierarchy, including reporting their efforts. The bill also creates procedures for diverting food safe for human consumption, requires certain state agencies and local governments to purchase and use compost and digestate, and establishes a food diversion grant program to support infrastructure development for food waste management. The bill takes effect immediately upon becoming law.

Senate Committee Amendment No. 2 Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments

Adjourned 5/31/26.

This bill amends the Environmental Protection Act by repealing the definition of "food scrap", adding definitions for "anaerobic digestion", "biogas", "digestate", "food waste", "organic material", and "organic waste", and updating the definitions of "compost" and "composting".

The legislation amends provisions regarding "pollution control facilities" by including a new exemption for portions of sites or facilities used for composting or anaerobic digestion of organic waste that meet specified siting, setback, floodplain, and operational requirements.

The bill establishes permitting requirements for organic waste composting operations and organic waste anaerobic digesters, and creates exemptions for small-scale and certain farm-based composting operations that meet volume limits, setback distances, and other environmental safeguards. The language stipulates that anaerobic digesters using only non-waste feedstock are exempt from solid waste permitting and clarifies that digested material returned to the economic mainstream is not regulated as waste.

The Environmental Protection Agency , and the Pollution Control Board are authorized to recommend and adopt, performance standards for organic waste compost facilities and testing procedures for end-product compost, and requires a Technical Advisory Committee with balanced stakeholder representation.

Adjourned 5/31/26.

*This resolution declares May 3 through May 9, 2026, as Compost Awareness Week in the State of Illinois, recognizing composting as a vital method for reducing waste, reusing organic materials like food scraps and yard trimmings, and recycling them into a beneficial product called compost. The resolution highlights that compost enriches soil, conserves water, reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, prevents erosion, and supports public works projects, ultimately contributing to cleaner water, healthier soil, and a more sustainable environment by creating green jobs and infrastructure. The chosen theme for 2026, "Compost! Feed the Soil that Feeds Us!", emphasizes the importance of composting for growing healthier food and fostering a more just and sustainable world.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 5/31/26.

Jim Pressel (R)*, J.D. Prescott (R), Bob Morris (R), Beau Baird (R), Rick Niemeyer (R), Jim Tomes (R)

*This bill establishes a statewide system for regulating grease control equipment, which refers to the necessary combination of grease interceptors (exterior or underground receptacles for high-volume wastewater) and grease traps (watertight tanks) designed to prevent fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from entering sewer systems. It applies to commercial facilities, food establishments, and mobile retail food establishments that discharge wastewater containing FOG. The bill requires these "regulated entities" to install and maintain properly sized grease control equipment, with exceptions for those who can demonstrate they don't generate significant FOG. It also sets rules for how "regulating authorities" (entities receiving wastewater) can charge for FOG programs and evaluate compliance, preventing blanket mandates on specific equipment types or sizes if existing equipment is adequate.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 2/27/26.

This bill enacts the Kansas organic waste land application accountability act and authorizes the Department of Health and Environment to regulate the land application of biosolids and organic waste materials, except when applied by a bona fide farmer conducting normal farming operations on land owned or leased by such farmer.

House Referred to Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources

Adjourned 4/11/26.

Robert Duvall (R)*, Kim Moser (R), Chad Aull (D), Kim Banta (R), Steve Bratcher (R), Josh Bray (R), Emily Callaway (R), Josh Calloway (R), Beverly Chester-Burton (D), Patrick Flannery (R), Ken Fleming (R), Chris Freeland (R), Deanna Frazier Gordon (R), Daniel Grossberg (D), Vanessa Grossl (R), David Hale (R), Mark Hart (R), Kimberly Holloway (R), Kevin Jackson (R), Kim King (R), Derek Lewis (R), Shawn McPherson (R), J.T. Payne (R), T.J. Roberts (R), Scott Sharp (R), Sarah Stalker (D), Nancy Tate (R), Aaron Thompson (R), Richard White (R), Wade Williams (R)

This bill defines "charitable food donor" as a nonprofit or religious organization that is recognized as tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or home-based processor, which produces food for distribution to a homeless shelter or to individuals displaced due to a declared natural disaster. The language exempts a charitable food donor from certain licensing requirements when donating safe and apparently wholesome food. The bill exempts these organizations from civil and criminal liability arising from the production or donation of food to a homeless shelter or to individuals displaced due to a declared natural disaster.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 4/15/26.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement

*This bill establishes a legal framework for community fridges in Massachusetts to help address food insecurity. It defines a community fridge as a publicly accessible refrigerator where people can donate or take food freely, with each fridge required to have a designated manager (who could be a volunteer, nonprofit, or government official) responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitary conditions according to the department of public health guidelines. The bill prioritizes placing these fridges in areas with high food insecurity, such as food deserts and low-income regions, and mandates equitable distribution across the Commonwealth's geographic regions. Additionally, the bill includes a liability protection clause for food establishments that donate open-dated or free food, ensuring they cannot be held civilly liable for food-related injuries as long as the food was not misbranded, adulterated, or improperly handled, and the injury was not caused by gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

*This bill amends Chapter 111, Section 223 of Massachusetts General Laws by adding a new subsection that requires the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) to establish regulations for new school construction and substantial kitchen renovation projects. Specifically, the MSBA must now mandate that funding applicants (1) install dishwashers capable of handling reusable foodware, and (2) develop and implement procedures and enforcement plans aimed at reducing solid waste, including recyclable materials and food scraps.

Joint Committee on Education Hearing (13:00:00 5/12/2025 A-2)

*This bill directs the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) to develop comprehensive guidance and resources to promote food donation across the state. Specifically, the DPH must create detailed guidelines for businesses that include information about liability protections, community benefits of food donation, legal regulations for safe food handling, types of food that can be donated, and contact information for further questions. The department is required to distribute these guidelines within 6 months, ensure they are posted on their website, and make them easily accessible to businesses. Additionally, the bill mandates that the DPH conduct educational webinars for health agents and local health boards at least four times per year to discuss food donation best practices. Furthermore, the department must develop a statewide educational campaign within 12 months to raise awareness about reducing food waste, targeting both businesses and consumers. The overall goal of the bill is to encourage more food donation, reduce food waste, and provide resources to help businesses safely and confidently participate in food donation efforts.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on House Ways and Means

*This bill aims to standardize food date labeling in Massachusetts by establishing clear guidelines for "quality dates" and "safety dates" on food packaging. The legislation requires food labelers to use specific, uniform phrases like "best if used by" for quality dates (which indicate potential product quality decline) and "use by" for safety dates (which indicate potential health risks). The Commissioner of Public Health will determine which ready-to-eat products require safety dates based on risk criteria, particularly for products with high risks of contaminants like Listeria monocytogenes. The bill mandates that these dates be clearly and consistently displayed on food packaging, and prohibits restrictions on selling or donating food solely based on having passed a quality date. The commissioner must provide guidance to food labelers and consumer education about these new labeling standards within one year of enactment. Importantly, the requirements will only apply to food products labeled two years after the act's enactment, giving businesses time to adapt. The bill also includes a provision that makes non-compliant food labeling a violation, ensuring enforcement of these new standards.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement, Tax Incentive

*This bill establishes a tax credit for food businesses that donate food to nonprofit food distribution organizations in Massachusetts and provides legal protections for such donations. Specifically, food businesses like farms, restaurants, and food stores can receive a non-refundable tax credit equal to the fair market value of donated food, up to $25,000 annually, provided the food is distributed without charge or at a cost that only covers handling expenses. The bill defines specific requirements for claiming the tax credit, including that the donated food must be used within Massachusetts and cannot be sold or transferred for other purposes. Additionally, the bill limits civil liability for food businesses and nonprofit organizations that donate or distribute food in good faith, protecting them from damages arising from the condition of the food, as long as the food is not misbranded, adulterated, or improperly handled, and the donation does not result from gross negligence or intentional misconduct. The bill also waives permit fees for food distribution and allows home-prepared food to be donated to nonprofit organizations without requiring a license.

Hearing scheduled for 04/08/2025 from 01:00 PM-02:30 PM in A-2

This bill makes supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026. This bill permits a farm business that donates food, meals, or crops grown, manufactured, packaged or prepared by the farm business in the commonwealth to a nonprofit food distribution organization to be allowed a refundable credit for the taxable year of the donation. The bill establishes a food donation tax credit under which a farm business is allowed a refundable income tax credit based on the amount of food donated to a nonprofit food distribution organization. The credit must be equal to the fair market value of the food, meals or crops donated by the farm business during the taxable year but not to exceed an aggregate credit of $5,000 annually. This credit can only be claimed if the farm business has not claimed a federal or state tax deduction for the same food, meals or crops donated by said business during the same taxable year.

This bill makes supplemental appropriations for fiscal year 2026. This bill permits a farm business that donates food, meals, or crops grown, manufactured, packaged or prepared by the farm business in the commonwealth to a nonprofit food distribution organization to be allowed a refundable credit for the taxable year of the donation. The bill establishes a food donation tax credit under which a farm business is allowed a refundable income tax credit based on the amount of food donated to a nonprofit food distribution organization. The credit must be equal to the fair market value of the food, meals or crops donated by the farm business during the taxable year but not to exceed an aggregate credit of $5,000 annually. This credit can only be claimed if the farm business has not claimed a federal or state tax deduction for the same food, meals or crops donated by said business during the same taxable year.

*This bill prohibits the application of fertilizer containing nitrogen or phosphorus in the town of Wellfleet, recognizing that excessive amounts of these nutrients are contaminants that harm fresh and salt waters by promoting undesirable algae and aquatic plant growth, which negatively impacts public health and recreational activities. The bill acknowledges Wellfleet's unique sandy soils that allow for rapid nutrient leaching, necessitating this prohibition to help the town meet state-mandated limits, known as Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), for nitrogen and phosphorus in its waters. Exceptions are made for commercial agriculture and the residential use of organic fertilizers with low nitrogen and phosphorus content specifically for growing fruits and vegetables.

Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources Hearing (10:00:00 7/1/2026 B-1)

This measure appropriates no less than $50,000 to the city of Newton to reduce organic food waste in schools.

This measure appropriates not less than $2,000,000 to the Massachusetts Food Trust program.

This measure appropriates $26,000,000 for food security grant programs to support equitable access to nutritious, local food and to strengthen food supply and distribution systems; provided, that programs may consider the unique needs of rural and urban areas and gateway municipalities as defined ito provide greater access to local food. The programs may provide grants that support food banks and other parts of the food distribution system by expanding services and funds may be used to provide grants to public and nonpublic entities and tribal governments to carry out this item that may include, but shall not be limited to, farms, retailers, fisheries, food system businesses, food distributors, food processors, food banks, farm stands, food hubs, food retailers, elder services and community-supported agriculture farms.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement

*This bill establishes a legal framework for community fridges to address food insecurity in Massachusetts by defining community fridges as publicly accessible refrigerators where people can freely donate or take food. The bill requires each community fridge to have a designated manager (who could be a volunteer, nonprofit, or government official) responsible for maintaining cleanliness and sanitary conditions according to department of public health guidelines. The placement of these fridges will be strategically prioritized in areas with high food insecurity, including food deserts and low-income regions, with an emphasis on equitable geographic distribution across the Commonwealth. Additionally, the bill provides legal protection for food establishments that donate food without charge, shielding them from civil liability as long as the food is not misbranded, adulterated, or improperly handled, and the injury is not result of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

*This bill aims to reduce solid waste, increase recycling, and generate municipal cost savings by implementing a comprehensive waste management strategy. The bill requires the department of environmental protection to establish annual performance goals for municipal solid waste reduction, with municipalities required to submit annual reports on their waste disposal. Solid waste management facilities must remove and divert waste ban materials, with strict enforcement mechanisms including load inspections and fines for haulers who do not comply. A $1.50 per ton surcharge will be collected on all waste disposed of at solid waste facilities, with these funds and any collected fines going into a new "Zero Waste Fund" to support recycling and composting programs. Waste collection services must register with the department, provide comprehensive collection services that encourage recycling, and annually instruct customers on proper waste management. Haulers must collect waste and recyclables at a single rate, with recyclables required to be sent to facilities for beneficial reuse rather than disposal. The bill also establishes a robust reporting and enforcement framework, including potential fines for false reporting and the department's authority to create implementing regulations. These measures are designed to create a more efficient and environmentally responsible waste management system in the state.

Donation Program or Donation Requirement

*This bill aims to encourage food donations to those in need by providing tax incentives for food businesses and protecting donors from liability. Specifically, the bill creates a tax credit for food businesses that donate food, meals, or crops to nonprofit food distribution organizations, with the credit equal to the fair market value of the donation (up to $25,000 annually). The bill also establishes legal protections for food donors and nonprofit organizations, ensuring they are not held liable for civil damages arising from donated food, with some important exceptions. To claim the tax credit, donors must obtain a written certification from the receiving nonprofit that details the donation, including the amount and value of food donated. The bill applies to various types of food businesses, including farms, restaurants, and food stores, and allows donations of open-dated food. Importantly, the protections do not apply if the donated food is misbranded, adulterated, prepared in violation of health regulations, or if the donation involves gross negligence or intentional misconduct. The bill also eliminates permit fees for nonprofits distributing donated food and allows home-prepared food to be donated without a license, all with the goal of making food donation easier and more attractive for businesses and organizations.

Reporting date extended to Tuesday June 30, 2026

*This bill amends an existing Massachusetts law to provide legal protection for food service entities and retail stores that donate food directly to individuals. Specifically, the bill shields these donors from civil liability for injuries arising from donated food, as long as certain conditions are met. These conditions include: the donated food must not be misbranded or adulterated, it must have been manufactured, processed, prepared, handled, and stored in compliance with public health regulations, and the donation must be made without charge or at a cost that only covers handling expenses. The bill is designed to encourage food donations by reducing the legal risk for businesses that want to give away surplus or near-expiration food, potentially helping to address food insecurity while preventing food waste. The protection from liability does not apply if the injury results from negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct by the donor or their employees.

Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886

*This bill proposes three key changes to encourage food donation to people in need. First, it modifies existing law to protect food donors from civil liability when donating food that has passed its open date, as long as the food is not misbranded, adulterated, or improperly handled, and the donation does not result from gross negligence or intentional misconduct. Second, it extends similar liability protections to food establishments that distribute food without charge or at a minimal handling cost. Third, the bill creates a new tax deduction for business corporations engaged in farming that donate food crops to nonprofit food distribution organizations. The tax deduction allows corporations to claim a deduction equal to the fair market value of donated food crops, up to $2,000 per year, for donations made between 2024 and 2030. To claim the deduction, corporations must provide documentation from the receiving nonprofit that details the donation and confirms the food will be used to help those in need. The bill aims to reduce barriers to food donation by providing legal protections for donors and financial incentives for agricultural businesses to contribute to food security efforts.

Accompanied a study order (under JR10), see S2886

*This bill aims to standardize date labeling on food packaging to reduce food waste by introducing clear guidelines for two types of dates: a "quality date" and a "safety date". The bill requires ready-to-eat products to use a uniform "expires on" safety date label for high-risk items, while quality date labels (which are optional) must use the phrase "best if used by". The Commissioner of Public Health will establish criteria for determining which products require a safety date, potentially focusing on items with high risks of contaminants like Listeria monocytogenes. The bill prohibits preventing the sale or donation of food past its quality date, but allows restrictions based on safety concerns. Food labelers must place these dates in a conspicuous, easy-to-read location on packaging, and the commissioner must provide consumer education about these labels within one year of enactment. Additionally, the bill mandates a review of these labeling criteria at least every four years and will apply to food products labeled two years after the act's enactment, providing manufacturers time to adapt to the new requirements.

Joint Committee on Environment and Natural Resources

*This bill aims to reduce solid waste and increase recycling in Massachusetts by establishing several key provisions. First, the Department of Environmental Protection will create annual performance target goals for municipal solid waste reduction, based on pounds of waste disposed per resident. Municipalities will be required to submit annual reports detailing their total waste weight and the number of households served. The bill also introduces a $1.50 per ton surcharge on waste disposed at solid waste facilities, with the collected funds going into a new Zero Waste Fund to support recycling, composting, and zero waste education programs. Additionally, all solid waste collection service providers will now be required to register with the department and pay an administrative fee. The bill provides for low-interest loans from the Zero Waste Fund to help haulers purchase equipment needed to comply with new regulations, and grants the Department of Environmental Protection the authority to create rules and regulations to implement these changes. The overall goal is to create a more comprehensive and environmentally responsible waste management system in the state.

Bill reported favorably by committee and referred to the committee on Senate Ways and Means

Natalie Ziegler (D)*, Michele Guyton (D), Todd Morgan (R), Sheila Ruth (D), Matthew Schindler (D), Jason Buckel (R), Mike Griffith (R), Wayne Hartman (R), Kevin Hornberger (R), April Fleming Miller (R), Edith Patterson (D), Greg Wims (D)

This legislation repeals the limitation on the maximum amount of a credit against the State income tax that an individual may claim for expenses incurred for a donation of deer meat to organizations that are exempt from federal taxation under the 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The ACT applies to all taxable years beginning after December 31, 2025.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 4/13/26.

Regina Boyce (D)*, Andrea Harrison (D), Lorig Charkoudian (D), Elizabeth Embry (D), Kris Fair (D), Anne Healey (D), Terri Hill (D), Aaron Kaufman (D), Bernice Mireku-North (D), Cheryl Pasteur (D), Edith Patterson (D), Malcolm Ruff (D), Sheila Ruth (D), Jen Terrasa (D), Melissa Wells (D), Jamila Woods (D), Teresa Woorman (D), Natalie Ziegler (D), Tiffany Alston (D), Heather Bagnall (D), Bonnie Cullison (D), Pamela Guzzone (D), Steve Johnson (D), Lesley Lopez (D), Ashanti Martínez (D), Sandy Rosenberg (D), Kim Ross (D), Deni Taveras (D), Jennifer White Holland (D)

*This legislation establishes requirements and prohibitions regarding food and milk product labeling. Specifically, the language defines "quality date" as a date indicating when food quality may decline but the food is still safe to eat, and "safety date" as a date by which perishable food should be consumed or frozen. The bill prohibits the use of the phrase "sell by" on food labels for items manufactured on or after July 1, 2028, and instead mandates the use of "best if used by" for quality dates and "use by" for safety dates, with abbreviations allowed for small packages.

The language further requires the Maryland Department of Health to create a marketing program and educational materials to inform consumers about the meaning of quality dates and safety dates for food labels. The information must be developed by July 1, 2027 and posted on the Department's website.

Adjourned 4/13/26.

Regina Boyce (D)*, Lorig Charkoudian (D), Elizabeth Embry (D), Kris Fair (D), Jessica Feldmark (D), Anne Healey (D), Terri Hill (D), Aaron Kaufman (D), Mary Lehman (D), Edith Patterson (D), Sheila Ruth (D), Jamila Woods (D), Teresa Woorman (D), Natalie Ziegler (D), Dylan Behler (D), Linda Foley (D), Jay Jacobs (R), Marvin Holmes (D), Robbyn Lewis (D), Darrell Odom (D), Dana Stein (D), Todd Morgan (R)

This legislation establishes, beginning July 1, 2028, the On-Farm Organics Diversion and Recycling Grant Program in the Department of Agriculture. The Program intends to award grants to eligible entities to develop and implement on-farm organics recycling, compost use, wasted food prevention, and food rescue. The bill also requires the Governor to include in the annual budget bill an appropriation of $250,000 for the program; and requiring the Department of Agriculture to annually report to the General Assembly on the impact of the grant program.

Signed/Enacted/Adopted

Adjourned 4/13/26.