Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act
To require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate certain limitations with respect to pre-production plastic pellet pollution, and for other purposes.
HB7543, known as the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, aims to address pollution caused by pre-production plastic pellets, also called nurdles, by mandating the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to set specific limits on this type of pollution. These small plastic pellets, often used in the production of larger plastic products, can easily enter waterways and harm marine life and ecosystems.
The bill would primarily affect manufacturers and industries that produce or use plastic pellets, as well as environmental groups and communities near waterways. By setting limits, the legislation hopes to reduce plastic pellet pollution, protect aquatic life, and improve water quality, benefiting both the environment and public health.
HB7543 was introduced on February 12, 2026, and has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. It was subsequently referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment on February 13, 2026. The bill is still in the early stages of the legislative process, and further steps will be needed for it to be considered and potentially enacted into law.
