Truth in Labeling Act of 2026

This bill creates national standards for labeling packaging, food service products, and beverage containers as recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable, and prohibits misleading labels.

Sec. 3, Definitions: Defines key terms including "Administrator" (EPA Administrator), "chasing arrows symbol", "covered material" (packaging, food service products, beverage containers), "compostable", "reusable", and "refillable".

Sec. 4, Covered material labeling: If a producer voluntarily labels a covered material as recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable, the label must be clear, consistent with standardized labels, and indicate the correct disposal method. If the material does not meet the criteria, the producer must not use any label that would mislead consumers. Plastic covered materials must have a resin identification code, but it cannot be placed inside a chasing arrows symbol unless the material is recyclable and placement is physically necessary.

Sec. 5, Recyclable criteria: A covered material is recyclable if it meets industry design guidelines, has no non-recyclable components (or clear removal instructions), is collected by a recycling program covering at least 60% of consumers, and has commercial value. A qualified claim of recyclability is allowed if the program covers at least 40% of consumers and other criteria are met.

Sec. 6, Compostable criteria: A covered material is compostable if it meets industry design standards, passes ASTM compostability tests, contains no intentionally added PFAS or heavy metals, is accepted by at least 50% of U.S. composting programs, and breaks down into compost. A qualified claim is allowed if accepted by at least 30% of programs.

Sec. 7, Reusable and refillable criteria: A covered material is reusable or refillable if it is designed for durability, can be recirculated or refilled multiple times, is supported by a convenient reuse/refill system, and is not intended for single use.

Sec. 8, Development of standardized labels: Within 2 years, the EPA Administrator, with the FTC, must establish or approve standardized on-package labels for recyclable, compostable, reusable, and refillable claims, including icons, terminology, and placement. Labels must be reviewed and revised at least every 5 years.

Sec. 9, Advisory committee: Within 180 days, the EPA and FTC must jointly establish an advisory committee with representatives from industry, material recovery facilities, environmental organizations, state and local governments, and technical experts to advise on standards and labeling.

Sec. 10, Reports to Congress: Annually, the EPA and FTC must report to Congress on implementation, obstacles, technology changes, lists of materials meeting or not meeting criteria, and consumer understanding of labels.

Sec. 11, Enforcement: Two years after standardized labels are established, it becomes a deceptive practice under the FTC Act to sell or distribute covered materials not in compliance. Specific prohibitions apply to misuse of the chasing arrows symbol and resin identification codes, with exceptions for existing inventory and revised standards.

Sec. 12, Education campaign: The EPA must develop best practices for educating consumers on the new labels and provide them to states, local governments, and tribes, including materials on the preferred recovery method for recyclable and compostable items.

Sec. 13, Compatibility: The EPA shall encourage producers and supply chains to work with recycling, composting, reuse, and refill industries to address label compatibility challenges.

Sec. 14, Severability: If any provision is held unconstitutional, the rest of the Act remains in effect.