New Jersey Senate Bill S311

New Jersey 2026-2027 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Requires certain facilities that store or process automotive shredder residue to obtain DEP permit; defines "hazardous waste" to include automotive shredder residue.

Impact

The legislation amends the existing Solid Waste Management Act to include ASR under the definition of hazardous waste. This classification means that entities involved in the transportation, storage, or processing of ASR will now be subject to the same stringent regulations as those dealing with other types of hazardous waste. The bill emphasizes the need for environmental safeguards and reflects a broader commitment to public health by managing the potential risks associated with hazardous waste.

Summary

S311 is a legislative bill in New Jersey aimed at regulating the storage and processing of automotive shredder residue (ASR). The bill mandates that facilities must obtain a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) before storing or processing ASR. This measure is designed to address the hazardous and flammable nature of ASR and to ensure public safety by preventing its storage in close proximity to residential areas and critical infrastructure. By requiring a permitting process, the bill seeks to implement appropriate limits on the volume, height, and duration of ASR storage at these facilities.

Contention

While the bill is generally seen as a necessary step toward better environmental management and public safety, some stakeholders may contend that the new regulations could impose additional operational burdens on scrap processing facilities. Proponents argue that the requirements are essential for ensuring adequate protection against the dangers posed by ASR, while critics could express concerns about the impact on business operations and the potential for increased costs associated with compliance.