Toy Association Advocacy Alters Vermont EPR Bill Language to Prevent Manufacturer Burden

March 11, 2024 | Advocacy efforts from Toy Association staff led to crucial amendments to Vermont’s Senate Bill 254, which initially imposed burdensome responsibilities on toy manufacturers for any products containing batteries.

Vermont Senate Bill 254 places battery-containing products under the state’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program, making manufacturers responsible for the collection, transportation, and disposal of batteries at the end of their useful life. The original language of the legislation would have made the product manufacturer responsible for the batteries rather than the battery manufacturer.

Through collaborative efforts with a coalition group in the state, The Toy Association™ successfully advocated for amendments to the bill, ensuring that battery manufacturers assume the appropriate responsibility for EPR, rather than placing undue burdens on toy manufacturers.

“Addressing onerous legislation is just one of the many ways the Association’s global government and regulatory affairs team works to shape legislative outcomes and protect the interests of our industry year-round,” said Charlotte Hickcox, director of state affairs at The Toy Association. “Through strategic advocacy efforts and collaborative engagement with policymakers, we remain committed to ensuring a favorable regulatory environment that fosters innovation and growth within the toy industry.”

The bill has since emerged from the state’s Natural Resources and Energy committee with language that aligned with industry preferences and awaits further deliberation in the House.

The Toy Association will continue to keep its members apprised of developments on this issue. Any questions may be directed to The Toy Association’s Charlotte Hickcox.