Senator Anne Watson (D) introduced VT S 217, which would establish an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for mattresses in Vermont. Unfortunately, ISPA must oppose the bill as it strays from the structure that has enabled the Mattress Recycling Council (MRC) to operate successfully in its four existing program states.  

Importantly, the bill lacks a provision that enables retailers to collect a small point-of-sale fee to fund the program. ISPA supports a point-of-sale fee financing model because it is the most efficient, transparent, and equitable way to fund statewide mattress recycling programs. In addition, the bill contains unreasonable reporting requirements for the producer responsibility organization (PRO) and impractical program goals and timelines set in statute.   

ISPA would like to see the MRC’s program expand to Vermont. However, this bill does not establish the legislative framework necessary for a successful program. As this bill was introduced without ISPA’s input, we plan to engage with the appropriate stakeholders and develop legislation that can lead to the implementation of a successful mattress recycling program in the state.  

Please contact ISPA’s Government Affairs Team (Alison Keane and Marty Salamone), if your company has a presence in Vermont and would like to assist with ISPA’s advocacy efforts. ISPA will keep our members informed of any significant updates regarding this legislation.