ATLANTA – State Representative Eric Bell (D-Jonesboro) recently introduced House Bill 1237, the Pollution Prevention and Producer Responsibility Act of 2026, which would establish a comprehensive producer responsibility framework for packaging, paper products and beverage containers.
“For too long our communities have paid the price for pollution they did not create,” said Rep. Bell. “This bill is about responsibility and respect—for our neighborhoods, our workers and the generations coming behind us. When producers take responsibility for the full life cycle of their products, everyone benefits.”
HB 1237 would establish statewide Producer Responsibility Organizations (PROs) to support waste reduction efforts across urban, suburban and rural communities. The bill would also direct the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to create a Producer Responsibility Advisory Board composed of local government representatives, environmental justice advocates, recycling and composting providers, retailers and other community stakeholders. The board would be required to review all programs run by PROs and provide guidance to both DNR and the PROs on producer responsibility plans, program operations and potential improvements.
Rep. Bell emphasizes that this legislation prioritizes convenience, environmental protection and long-term cost savings. He notes it would benefit local governments, taxpayers, residents—including those in multifamily and underserved communities—environmental justice communities, small businesses and service providers. In addition, he highlights that the bill would support Georgia’s environment and public health by reducing landfill use and expanding recycling and reuse systems.
The full text of HB 1237 may be found here.
Representative Eric Bell represents the citizens of District 75, which includes a portion of Clayton County. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2023 and currently serves on the Defense & Veterans Affairs, Human Relations & Aging and Small Business Development committees.
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