Truth in Labeling Act Introduced by Rep. Lou Correa and Sen. Jeff Merkley to Standardize Recycling Labels
Rep. Lou Correa (D-CA) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR) have introduced the Truth in Labeling Act of 2026, a bicameral bill aimed at creating national standards for labeling products as recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable. The legislation directs the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to establish enforceable definitions for these terms and develop a standardized on-package label. This initiative seeks to replace the current inconsistent state rules and voluntary industry guidelines, providing clear labeling to help consumers make informed decisions. The bill also sets specific numeric thresholds for recyclability and compostability claims, ensuring that only materials with established recovery infrastructure can be labeled as such. Violations of these standards would be considered deceptive practices under the FTC Act, with penalties supporting federal recycling infrastructure and education programs. 
