03/30/2005 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• AttoMel*2 Approved September 22, 2004 SWMCB 2005 Legislative Package Introduction In 2003, the SWMCB worked with the OEA to develop the Metropolitan Solid Waste Management Policy Plan: 2003 -2023. (November, 2003) The Plan sets forth the vision, goals and policies that will guide the development of the regional solid waste management system over the next 20 years. The goals and policies also provide the framework for the development of state and regional policy related to solid waste. In addition, the SWMCB is presently completing work on the 2005 - 2024 Master Plan which will include outcomes and strategies that also guide county and regional activities. Implementation of the Policy Plan and Regional Master Plan will require assistance from the Minnesota Legislature, in maintaining the State commitment to environmental protection, resource conservation, funding and the hierarchy of preferred solid waste management practices. 2005 Legislative Proposals 1. Waste to Energy Renewable Energy Clarification The SWMCB supports an amendment to MN Stat 216B.1691 to clarify that biomass energy technology, using a renewable energy source, should represent 1% of all retail electrical sales. In the 2003 legislative session, waste to energy was defined as renewable and a biomass energy technology. The authors' intent was to require that 1% of all retail sales be generated from biomass technologies but the PUC determined that the legislative language adopted in 2003 must be read to require utilities to provide 1/10 of 1% renewable energy from biomass. This proposal would correct this interpretation by clarifying the language to reflect the original intent of the various authors during the 2003 session. 2. Electronic Waste The SWMCB supports legislation regarding management of electronic waste that incorporates shared responsibility among manufacturers, retailers, and generators; reliable and convenient recycling options; responsible recycling of CRTs; a mechanism to address the backlog of CRTs; and a preference for cost internalization or advance recycling fees over end -of -life fees and without relying on local government. It is critical to put these policies in place on a statewide basis before the prohibition on placement of CRTs in the MSW stream commences on July 1, 2005. 3. Processing Payment • The SWMCB supports extending the Processing Payment at the original level of $5 per ton and amending the processing payment program to 1