HR-2145 : Still Just a Bill

The "Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act of 2025" (H.R. 2145) aims to improve recycling accessibility across the United States. Key provisions include:

• Establishing a Pilot Grant Program: Creates a "Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Program" administered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
• Competitive Grants: Awards grants to eligible entities (States, local governments, Indian Tribes, and public-private partnerships) on a competitive basis.
• Focus on Underserved Communities: Targets communities lacking sufficient recycling services due to transportation costs, distance, or limited processing capacity.
• Hub-and-Spoke Model: Promotes a recycling infrastructure development model centered around central facilities and collection points.
• Eligible Project Funding: Grant funds can be used for:
  • Increasing the number of transfer stations
  • Expanding curbside recycling programs
  • Leveraging public-private partnerships to reduce costs
• Grant Amounts: Grants will range from $500,000 to $15,000,000.
• Prioritization: Priority will be given to communities with limited access to materials recovery facilities (one or fewer within a 75-mile radius).
• Set-Aside for Underserved Communities: At least 70% of the grant funds are reserved for projects in single or multiple underserved communities.
• Federal Share: Limits the federal share of project costs to 90%, with a potential waiver for entities facing financial hardship.
• Reporting: Requires the Administrator to submit a report to Congress on the implementation of the pilot grant program.
• Authorization of Appropriations: Authorizes $30,000,000 to be appropriated for each of fiscal years 2025 through 2029.

In short, H.R. 2145 seeks to boost recycling rates by providing financial assistance to improve recycling infrastructure, especially in underserved areas.