In a landmark move, California passed the Responsible Textile Recovery Act in 2024, becoming the first U.S. state to formalise an EPR programme for textiles. While full implementation is a few years away, the state has laid out a clear roadmap stretching to 2028 and beyond.
Key milestones include:
For producers targeting or currently selling into the California market, now is the time to begin preparing for these obligations.
New York is not far behind. Two proposed bills, SB3217 in the State Senate and A6193 in the State Assembly, aim to establish a similar textile EPR framework.
Although originally expected to pass in 2024, both bills will not be passed this year. The Senate and Assembly 2025 legislative sessions officially ended on 13 and 18 June, respectively. However, the full session continues into next year, so the proposals are likely to return in 2025.
If passed, the legislation would:
New York’s approach signals a strong commitment to sustainable textiles. Stakeholders should continue to monitor developments in the year ahead.
Washington is taking steps toward textile EPR with HB 1420, reintroduced in January 2025 after an earlier version (HB 2068) did not pass in the 2023–24 session. The updated bill includes changes to scope and obligations, bringing it closely in line with New York’s proposals.
If passed, key obligations would include:
Covered products: Most apparel, footwear, bags, accessories, and other textile articles (e.g. curtains, blankets, sheets, etc.)
Exemptions: PPE, military clothing, reusable hygiene products, single use textile articles (e.g. wet wipes)
Obligated producers: Brands/manufacturers over $1M global revenue (excluding second-hand and micro-sellers)
Reporting requirements:
From 1 January 2027, annual reports detailing chemicals use, sustainability claims, and inventory practices
From 1 April 2028, large producers (>$100M revenue) must report supply chain data and impact-reduction targets
Proposed timeline:
1 March 2027: Department to approve a PRO
1 January 2029: PROs must submit a full implementation plan
Washington’s move signals growing momentum in the U.S. for coordinated textile EPR, producers should prepare for multi-state compliance in the near future.
With California, New York, and Washington all taking legislative action, the U.S. textile EPR landscape is evolving quickly. In the coming year, expect:
Staying ahead of shifting EPR regulations, especially across different states, can be complex. Valpak’s expert Textile Compliance services help you navigate evolving requirements with ease.
We provide:
Get in touch with us today to ensure your business is prepared for the future of textile regulation in the U.S.