Bill banning waste and plastic incineration facilities in Colorado moves on to the full Senate

Senate Bill 24-150, aimed at prohibiting waste and plastic incineration facilities in Colorado, successfully passed its initial legislative hurdle yesterday. During a two-hour session, the Colorado State Senate Transportation & Energy Committee passed the bill with a 5 to 2 vote, setting the stage for full Senate consideration.

Environmental and consumer advocacy groups, Eco-cycle, CoPIRG, and Environment Colorado strongly supported the bill. Their backing was significantly strengthened by expert testimonies at the hearing highlighting the severe environmental and public health risks associated with waste and plastic incineration. 

The experts presented compelling evidence on the dangers of toxins released from these processes, including dioxins, heavy metals, and particulate matter. They emphasized how these substances pose a threat to air quality and public health, exacerbating Colorado’s already pressing air pollution issues.

This underscores the urgent need to prevent the establishment of incineration facilities in the state. As Senate Bill 24-150 progresses to the full Senate, the spotlight remains on the potential environmental and public health implications.