New Compliance Challenges as EPR Packaging Laws Expand
As Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws for packaging gain momentum across the United States, companies in the vinyl record industry—from pressing plants and record labels to packaging suppliers and distributors—are facing a new wave of compliance requirements that could reshape how records are packaged and sold.
EPR legislation shifts the responsibility for packaging waste management from consumers and municipalities to producers, who will now be expected to cover the costs of collection, recycling, and disposal. In practice, this means that any company introducing packaged goods into the U.S. market may soon be required to register with a Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO), submit detailed reports on packaging types and volumes, and pay variable fees based on the recyclability and environmental impact of materials used.
Key States Taking the Lead
Four states—California, Maine, Oregon, and Colorado—have already passed EPR laws, each with unique timelines and reporting requirements. California’s SB 54, for instance, mandates a 25% reduction in plastic packaging by 2032 and requires that all packaging be recyclable or compostable. Colorado’s EPR framework begins implementation in 2026, while Maine and Oregon have launched reporting and fee-based programs.
In a closely watched development, New York's Packaging Reduction and Recycling Infrastructure Act narrowly failed to pass in the final hours of the 2025 legislative session, missing its Assembly vote by just one session. Industry experts expect the bill to return in 2026 with broader support.
What It Means for the Vinyl Record Industry
Vinyl records are typically packaged using a mix of paperboard sleeves, shrink wrap, polybags, and custom inserts—materials that may come under greater scrutiny in light of these laws. Companies using multi-layer plastics or materials lacking clear recyclability data may be subject to higher compliance fees. Additionally, downstream reporting obligations could prompt packaging suppliers to provide more granular data about the materials they sell.
Next Steps for Businesses
To prepare for these changes, vinyl-related companies are advised to:
Audit current packaging formats and identify materials at risk of non-compliance.
Monitor legislation in key markets, especially in states with active or pending EPR laws.
Engage suppliers for recyclability and composition data.
Budget for anticipated compliance costs and PRO membership.
📣 Join the VRMA to Stay Ahead
The Vinyl Record Manufacturers Association (VRMA) is actively monitoring EPR regulations and working to ensure that the unique needs of the vinyl industry are understood by policymakers and regulators. By joining the VRMA, your company gains access to shared compliance tools, best practices, legal updates, and a community of peers navigating the same challenges.