S.351 - Strategies To Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development Act of 2025; STEWARD Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Strategies To Eliminate Waste and Accelerate Recycling Development Act of 2025, or STEWARD Act of 2025 (S.351), aims to improve recycling accessibility and data collection on recycling and composting programs in the United States. The bill establishes a pilot grant program, the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Program, to award grants to eligible entities for improving recycling infrastructure, particularly in underserved communities. It also mandates the EPA Administrator to collect and disseminate data on recycling and composting programs, including infrastructure capabilities and end markets.
Expected Effects
The STEWARD Act is likely to increase recycling rates and improve waste management practices across the country. It will also provide financial assistance to communities struggling with recycling accessibility. The data collection and reporting requirements will enhance transparency and inform future policy decisions related to waste management.
Potential Benefits
Here are some potential benefits to the American people:
* Improved Recycling Infrastructure: Grants will help establish and expand recycling facilities, especially in underserved communities.
* Increased Recycling Rates: Enhanced accessibility and data-driven strategies should lead to higher recycling rates.
* Economic Opportunities: The development of recycling infrastructure can create jobs in collection, processing, and manufacturing.
* Environmental Protection: Reduced landfill waste and increased reuse of materials will benefit the environment.
* Data-Driven Policy: Comprehensive data collection will inform more effective recycling and composting policies.
Potential Disadvantages
Here are some potential disadvantages or drawbacks to the American people:
* Administrative Costs: A portion of the allocated funds will be used for administrative costs and technical assistance, potentially reducing the amount available for actual projects.
* Limited Scope: The pilot grant program has a limited budget and may not address all recycling accessibility issues nationwide.
* Voluntary Data Collection: The reliance on voluntary data submission from states may result in incomplete or biased data.
* Potential for Inefficiency: Public-private partnerships, while beneficial, may introduce complexities and potential inefficiencies if not managed properly.
* Lack of Focus on Education: The bill prohibits the use of grant funds for recycling education programs, which could limit its overall effectiveness.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The STEWARD Act aligns with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the U.S. Constitution, which empowers Congress to enact laws that promote the well-being of the nation. The Act's focus on environmental protection and waste reduction can be seen as contributing to the general welfare. Additionally, the Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).