119-S-2110 Journalist Public Summary

Headline Summary

Bipartisan Senate bill directs EPA to study reuse-and-refill packaging systems and report back in two years to help cut waste and guide future decisions. [1]Library of Congress — Text - S.2110 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): REUSE Act of…

What It Does

The REUSE Act of 2025 tells the Environmental Protection Agency to publish a report on how reuse and refill systems could work in areas like food service, consumer goods, cleaning and personal care products, shipping, and schools. The study must look at best practices, costs and benefits for businesses and waste managers, potential job creation, equity and access for communities, the kinds of government support that help these systems, and the obstacles to scaling them. EPA must also consult stakeholders and examine examples from U.S. states and abroad. [1]Library of Congress — Text - S.2110 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): REUSE Act of…

Why It Matters

This bill doesn’t mandate new rules; it gathers facts. Supporters say better data on reuse programs could reduce trash from single‑use packaging, identify cost‑effective options for businesses and cities, and highlight where reuse can create jobs and save money. [3]Office of Sen. Jeff Merkley — Merkley, Capito Push to Improve Recycling Nationw…

Who’s For It

• Sponsors: Sen. Jeff Merkley (D‑OR) and Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R‑WV) — pitching it as a practical, bipartisan step to understand where reuse works best for consumers and businesses. [3]Office of Sen. Jeff Merkley — Merkley, Capito Push to Improve Recycling Nationw…
• Environmental and reuse advocates: More than 180 organizations (including the Center for Biological Diversity, 5 Gyres, and Oceana) urged senators to support the bill, arguing that reuse can cut plastic waste and deliver economic benefits. [4]Center for Biological Diversity — 181 Businesses, Groups Urge Congress to Suppo…

Who’s Against It

• No organized opposition has been publicly prominent so far; because the bill commissions a study rather than setting mandates, it has drawn bipartisan committee support. [2]U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works — EPW Committee Advances…
• Potential concerns sometimes raised about reuse systems (in general): up‑front costs, logistics, and whether benefits scale in all communities. (These are general considerations; not tied to specific opposition on this bill.)

What’s Next

On October 29, 2025, the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee approved S.2110 by voice vote. The bill is now eligible for Senate floor consideration; if it passes the Senate, it would move to the House. [2]U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works — EPW Committee Advances…