The new recycling and waste management rules introduced by SB 54 in California are leading to arguments about exemption and the law’s aim to cut down on plastic.

Waste officials in California have introduced new rules for SB 54, the state’s main plastic waste law which has sparked fresh discussion on how to handle recycling and trash.

CalRecycle is using extended producer responsibility to encourage a reduction in single-use plastic. The final proposal describes what companies should report, except for products subject to FDA and USDA, like toothpaste, dog food and shampoo which worries environmental groups.

Experts disagree that letting trades do their recycling and preferring controversial chemical processes weakens California’s excellent recycling laws. Heidi Sanborn of the National Stewardship Action Council said the rules could mean less money for recycling and instead put the responsibility on consumers, rather than manufacturers.

He turned down a previous version last year due to budget worries. While his office thinks the new draft is progress, some environmental groups feel the stated exemptions stop the law from achieving its key goal.

There will be a public workshop on the proposed recycling and waste management laws in Sacramento next Tuesday.