EPA ordered to map America's recycling gaps—and make it public
H.R. 9987 — Recycling Infrastructure and Data Accountability Act · Filed by Michael Lawler (R-NY) · 1 cosponsor · Introduced Jul 30, 2026 · Referred to committee
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What it does
This bill directs the EPA to study whether a national database tracking recycling infrastructure, capacity, and outcomes is feasible, and if so, to build and maintain it publicly online within one year of submitting its report. The database would catalog recycling facilities, identify geographic gaps in access, and track extended producer responsibility program performance—giving the public and policymakers visibility into where recycling infrastructure exists, where it's missing, and how well it's working.
Why we flagged it
The bill's core mechanism is a mandated EPA study and subsequent public database to track recycling infrastructure and performance. It is fundamentally an information and accountability measure, not a regulatory mandate or subsidy.
What the text implies
- The database may expose underperformance by private waste and recycling companies, potentially creating political pressure for stricter regulation or enforcement.
- Extended producer responsibility (EPR) program tracking could shift financial burden toward manufacturers and packaging producers if the data reveals systemic failures in their programs.
The full analysis lists 4 implications of this text.
Who it affects
The bill creates transparency and accountability in recycling infrastructure by mandating a public database of facility locations, capacity, and performance. Citizens gain visibility into whether their region has adequate recycling access and how well programs are functioning, enabling informed advocacy and policy decisions.