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Congress·Passed Senate·3 months ago

New Grants to Expand Recycling and Composting Access

Also known as: STEWARD Act of 2025

Legislative Progress

✓ Filed
✓ Review
✓ Senate
House
President

Key Points

  • This policy creates a new grant program to help towns and cities build better recycling systems. It focuses on building 'transfer stations' where recyclables can be collected and then sent to larger processing centers, making it easier for smaller or remote areas to recycle.
  • The program specifically targets 'underserved communities' that currently do not have good access to recycling because they are too far from processing plants. These areas can receive grants between $500,000 and $15,000,000 to start curbside pickup or improve their local facilities.
  • The EPA will also start collecting much more detailed information on how much Americans actually recycle and compost. This includes tracking what happens to materials like plastic, glass, and food waste to see if they are actually being reused or just thrown away.
  • Congress is setting aside $30 million every year through 2029 for the infrastructure grants and another $4 million per year for the data collection. At least 70% of the grant money must go to communities that currently struggle with limited recycling options.
  • Federal agencies will also have to report their own recycling rates and how many recycled products they buy. This aims to make the government lead by example in reducing waste and supporting the market for recycled goods.

Milestones

6 milestones10 actions
Nov 20, 2025House

Held at the desk.

Nov 20, 2025House

Received in the House.

Nov 20, 2025Senate

Message on Senate action sent to the House.

Nov 20, 2025Senate

Passed Senate without amendment by Voice Vote. (consideration: CR S8395-8398; text: CR S8395-8398)

Nov 20, 2025

Passed/agreed to in Senate: Passed Senate without amendment by Voice Vote.

Source Information

Document Type

Congressional Bill

Official Title

STEWARD Act of 2025

Bill NumberS 351
Congress119th Congress
ChamberSenate
Latest ActionHeld at the desk.

Sponsor

Cosponsors

(2)
D: 1R: 1

Analysis generated by AI. While we strive for accuracy, this should not be considered legal or professional advice. Always verify information with official government sources.