Guides
Packaging EPR, explained.
Plain-English guides to who's covered, what's due and how the fees work — state by state. Every guide is dated and cites its sources. General information only; not legal advice.
State guides
One page per state with a packaging EPR law. Each is dated, cited and updated when the rules change.
Oregon
Fees paid since 2025, and a public list of producers that haven't complied.
Read the guide →Colorado
Dues invoiced since January 2026. 2027 rates are out.
Read the guide →California
Producers must join the program by January 1, 2027 to keep selling. Strict 2032 plastic requirements.
Read the guide →Maine
On hold: the state's search for an operator drew no bids in 2026.
Read the guide →Minnesota
Membership in the producer responsibility organization (PRO) required now. Fees and full obligations from 2029.
Read the guide →Maryland
Rules final in 2026. Plans due 2028, with fees expected before then.
Read the guide →Washington
PRO membership required now. Program rolls out in 2030.
Read the guide →Explainers
How the system works, in plain English.
Are you the producer?
How the producer definition works — brand owners, co-packers, licensees, importers, online sellers and franchises.
Read the explainer →How EPR fees are calculated
Per-pound rates by material, discounts and surcharges for packaging design (eco-modulation), California's plastic fund, and how to lower your bill — with real rates.
Read the explainer →Oregon's non-compliance list, explained
What it means to be on the state's producer status list — and how to get off it.
Read the explainer →Where packaging EPR came from
Germany in 1991, Europe, Canada, then China's 2018 import ban and seven US states in four years. Why this is happening now.
Read the explainer →Fee Watch
Rule changes, with the dollar impact.
A short note when a rule or fee schedule changes in any state — and what it means for your costs. Free.
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