As global momentum builds around Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for textiles, the United States is beginning to take significant steps. California leads the way with a passed law, while New York and Washington are actively progressing legislation. Here’s what producers need to know about upcoming obligations, timelines, and regulatory developments.
California takes the lead: Textile EPR Law in motion
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:
- Autumn 2025: CalRecycle (California’s Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery) will open the application window for Producer Responsibility Organisations (PROs)
- 1 March 2026: Deadline for PROs to be approved
- 1 July 2027: Obligated producers must join an approved PRO
- No earlier than 1 July 2028: Start date for the statewide Textile EPR programme
For producers targeting or currently selling into the California market, now is the time to begin preparing for these obligations.
New York: EPR legislation on the horizon
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:
- Require the formation of a collective EPR programme
- Mandate programme implementation by 31 December 2026
New York’s approach signals a strong commitment to sustainable textiles. Stakeholders should continue to monitor developments in the year ahead.
Washington: Revised bill reintroduced with broader scope
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:
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.
What to watch for in 2025
With California, New York, and Washington all taking legislative action, the U.S. textile EPR landscape is evolving quickly. In the coming year, expect:
- Clarification on product definitions and producer thresholds
- PRO development in California, and potentially Washington
- Renewed legislative momentum in New York and Washington
- Increasing pressure for multi-state compliance strategies
How Valpak can help
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:
- Textile Horizon Scanning so you’re never caught off guard
- Producer responsibility guidance
- Support with registration, reporting, and PRO selection
Get in touch with us today to ensure your business is prepared for the future of textile regulation in the U.S.
