AMERIPEN has supported the introduction of the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act, by Congressman Randy Weber from the 14th district in Texas. This bill seeks to address the inconsistency of state laws surrounding recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims on consumer packaging.
AMERIPEN said that it strongly supports the PACK Act, which creates a federal framework under the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for making recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims on consumer packaging. This uniform structure will replace the confusing patchwork of state regulations, helping businesses provide accurate and transparent information across state lines. By reducing consumer confusion and enabling informed choices, the PACK Act will promote proper management of packaging materials at end-of-life, diverting them from landfills and advancing a circular economy.
Key elements of the bill include:
- Mandatory Third-party Certification for Consumer Packaging: the PACK Act requires an accredited third-party certification body to authorize recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims on consumer packaging. This allows businesses to utilize a variety of qualified independent parties to certify that packaging meets industry standards and follows the FTC’s “Green Guides” to avoid deceptive claims.
- Focus on Consumer Packaging: the certification programs will address how recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims can be made for different types, shapes, sizes, and colors of consumer packaging. Non-consumer packaging will not be subject to the mandatory third-party certification requirement.
- State Preemption: States will be preempted from enacting or enforcing any legal requirement that is not identical to the requirements under the PACK Act. This approach will: ensure that a truly national and consistent framework for recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims for consumer packaging is achieved to eliminate interstate commerce challenges; to the extent possible, eliminate consumer confusion and mistrust regarding consumer packaging claims; and help assure that consumer packaging is handled correctly.
AMERIPEN will continue working with Congressman Weber and members of Congress to move this important legislation forward.
