AB 258 (Krekorian, 2007-08) Plastic Pellet Litter Prevention
Summary.
Sets up a task force to monitor and regulate the release of preproduction plastic pellets released into the marine environment.
Position and Status.
CAW Supports. AB 258 was signed into law by Gov. Schwarzenegger on Oct. 14, 2007.
Description.
Preproduction plastic pellets (called "nurdles") are a large contributor to marine debris and can cause starvation to marine wildlife, as well as other environmental hazards. They are also costly for local governments to clean up under the US EPA's Maximum Daily Load requirements for impaired waterways. AB 258 would task regional and state waterboards to set up a monitoring program to control nurdle loss. The task force would set up fee schedule to pay for the program. It would also task the California Coastal Commission with addressing the issue of marine debris in general, as well as have it set up a multi-agency taskforce to report to California Ocean Protection Council on progress made in terms of marine debris control and prevention.
CAW Staff Contacts.
Mark Murray and Sue Vang (916) 443-5422
Current Actions.
No actions are needed at this time. Thank you for all your support!
Assembly Member Paul Krekorian
State Capitol, Sacramento, CA 95814
Supporters.
Californians Against Waste
Algalita Marine Research Foundation
Baykeeper
California League of Conservation Voters
Coastkeeper Alliance
Defenders of Wildlife
Environment California (co-sponsor)
John Garamendi, Lieutenant Governor (co-sponsor)
Heal the Bay (co-sponsor)
Newport Beach Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation
Ocean Conservation Society
Planning and Conservation League
San Diego Coastkeeper (co-sponsor)
Santa Monica Baykeeper
Sierra Club California
Opposition.
Stop Hidden Taxes Coalition
Current Language, Analyses and votes.
Additional Resources: