Upstate United: Extended Producer Reliability Cannot Be Rushed Across Finish Line

June 5th, 2024

The following statement can be attributed to Justin Wilcox, Executive Director of Upstate United

“At a time when residents are facing high prices as a result of inflation and leaving New York State at record levels, lawmakers should be looking to make the state more affordable for consumers. Instead, the current Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) proposal would result in fewer choices at higher costs for low- and middle-income families, family farms, and small businesses, particularly in rural upstate.

“With an anticipated economic impact of an additional $2,300 for households over the next five years, there is no question that this is the wrong path for the viability of sectors within our state’s economy and rural communities.

“We urge representatives and leaders to take note of the governor’s recent announcement to prioritize affordability and prevent this overly broad, ambitious legislation from being rushed across the finish line in the final hours of the 2024 Legislative Session.”