Top: Graphic courtesy Institute for Local Self-Reliance

Maryland Delegate Regina T. Boyce introduced the Solid Waste Disposal Surcharge and Wasted Food Reduction and Diversion Fund and Grant Programs Bill (HB 42) for Maryland’s 2025 legislative session, marking the fourth session in a row that she has introduced it. The bill, which is cross-filed in the Senate (SB 134) by Senator Katie Fry Hester, addresses the critical need for investment in wasted food reduction and recovery programs and infrastructure in Maryland by establishing major grant programs funded by a nominal $2/ton surcharge on waste disposal. The grants could total more than $14 million/year to support local governments, small businesses, nonprofits, farmers, schools, and more in their efforts to advance wasted food prevention, rescue, recycling, and composting projects and infrastructure. The bill proposes all Maryland counties will receive funding in proportion to their population to reduce, rescue, and divert wasted food. The Institute for Local Self-Reliance’s (ILSR) Composting for Community policy team worked with Boyce on the bill. According to the ILSR team, at least 10 other states use a surcharge on disposal to fund waste diversion, which has a major impact on the economy and the environment.