Bill Incentivizing Recycling Efforts in Colorado Moves Forward

Colorado Senate Democrats work to protect our environment for generations to come

DENVER, CO  – Bipartisan legislation that aims to protect Colorado’s environment by incentivizing recycling was approved by the Business, Labor, and Technology Committee yesterday. This bill would improve recycling rates in Colorado by supporting the development of end-market recycling businesses. 

“Colorado is our home, and we must do everything in our power to protect it,” said Senator Story (D-Conifer). “By investing in our future and incentivizing recycling, we can further protect our environment and ensure our children, and their children will be able to call Colorado home for generations to come. ”

Colorado is falling behind when it comes to recycling. In 2018, Colorado’s recycling rate was almost half the national average, while only 50% of counties even had recycling services available. Currently, Colorado lacks the infrastructure to handle its recycling needs and is forced to send recyclables elsewhere. This can create unsustainable costs for business and a pressing need for more in-state solutions.  

SB20-055, sponsored by Senators Tammy Story and Kevin Priola, would incentivize the creation of more recycling facilities by lessening the property tax burden on eligible business owners. The bill would also direct the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment to create a pollution prevention advisory board, educate Colorado residents concerning recycling, and conduct a literature review of what other states are doing in terms of recycling.

For additional information about SB20-055, please click here.