CIRCLE Virtual Plenary June 5
Inside the Momentum in U.S. Circular Policy - Maryland & Illinois
Join this unique plenary to hear directly from the legislators behind Maryland’s newly passed EPR legislation and Illinois’ closely watched joint EPR-DRS bill. Gain insight into how these bills were developed, lessons from Maryland’s needs assessment process, and how both states are shaping the next wave of circular policy in the U.S.
The Writer’s Room: Movement in Maryland and Illinois
Legislators that sponsored the recently passed EPR for packaging bill in Maryland (May 2025) and the joint EPR for packaging & recycling refund bill in Illinois (introduced this session) will reflect on the process, upcoming milestones, and lessons for other states building momentum for circular policies.
- Senator Malcolm Augustine, Maryland - Sponsor of SB 901
- Senator Laura Murphy, Illinois - Sponsor of Senate Amendment #1 to SB 702 (the full bill text for SB 1817)
Implementer’s Insights: From Assessment to Action
Maryland Advisory Board member and HDR—lead consultants for the state's EPR needs assessment—will share critical takeaways, cross-state comparisons, and insights to help stakeholders align for action.
- Scott DeFife, President, Glass Packaging Institute - Maryland Advisory Board Member
- Daniel Bacehowski, EPR Lead & Senior Client Manager - HDR
- Jessica Lally, Solid Waste Planner - HDR
Meet the Speakers
Sponsor of SB 901
Sponsor of Senate Amendment #1 to SB 702 (2025 Joint EPR/DRS Bill)
Packaging EPR Advisory Board Member, Maryland
Needs Assessment Team Member
Needs Assessment Team Member
Get Involved
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