Our Advocacy
Advocacy Committee
The NAHMMA Advocacy Committee is dedicated to supporting our chapters, local governments and other stakeholders in the advancement of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), Product Stewardship, Circular Economy initiatives, and other policy-related efforts that work to promote responsible management of hazardous and potentially hazardous wastes. The Committee consists of members with a wide range of experience in advocating for impactful legislation. The Committee works to provide a framework for local and national policies which affect NAHMMA members’ work and priorities. The Committee develops policy statements and legislative principles, creates fact sheets, takes positions on legislation, and hosts webinars and other educational opportunities related to hazardous waste management legislation and policies.
The Committee is actively seeking new members to bring fresh ideas and diverse perspectives to help shape and propel NAHMMA’s policy initiatives forward. Join us to make a difference!
Past Advocacy Committee work includes legislative support and development of informational factsheets.
NAHMMA Policy Statement on Paint Product Stewardship Legislation
In NAHMMA’s Policy Statement on Chemical and Product Policy Reform, NAHMMA advocates for comprehensive state-level product policy legislation.
NAHMMA’s Paint Stewardship Legislation Principles:
NAHMMA advocates for the establishment of robust, manufacturer-funded take-back programs for unused paint that are well-publicized and accessible to the public. These programs should be designed to collect all types of architectural paint, including both latex and oil-based varieties, from residents and small quantity generators. We emphasize that collected paint must be managed responsibly, adhering to the waste management hierarchy and complying with all applicable regulations to ensure environmental and public health protection.
The committee developed these two factsheets to help educate potential stakeholders about the issues around aerial marine flares and pressurized containers.
Marine Flares Factsheet
This factsheet covers pyrotechnic marine flares, a visual distress signal that can be used by recreational and commercial vessels to meet Coast Guard requirements. Because of their limited shelf life and infrequent use there are large numbers of flares that are difficult to dispose of properly. This factsheet addresses hazards and disposal issues, alternatives, and policy recommendations.
Pressurized Containers Factsheet
This factsheet covers pressurized containers, including both aerosol cans and compressed gas cylinders, with a focus on those that are commonly available to consumers, and those that may be found disposed of in the solid waste stream. When disposed of improperly, these products pose a serious risk, and in fact are the cause of a significant number of incidents in solid waste facilities. The factsheet addresses safer disposal options that are currently available, and advocates for policy solutions that can help mitigate the risks posed.
