NSWMA Opposes New York City Bill on Capping Waste

The National Solid Waste Management Association (NSWMA) is opposing a bill in New York City that would cap the percentage of the city’s waste that can be handled by any one community district, saying it would result in the closure of several existing waste transfer stations.

Intro. 1170, if passed, would increase tipping fees for New York businesses by as much as $100 million annually, the Washington-based NSWMA said in a news release. It also sends the wrong message about investing in recycling and waste diversion infrastructure in New York, said David Biderman, NSWMA vice president for advocacy, in his testimony before the New York City Council Committee on Sanitation and Solid Waste Management. He called the legislation “irresponsible and unreasonable” and asked that council members not vote in favor of the bill if it comes to a vote later this year.

“The owners and operators of these facilities provide a vital service, comply with the numerous city laws and regulations governing their operations, and are working with the communities and neighborhoods in which they operate to reduce impacts,” Biderman said.

NSWMA’s New York City chapter includes many of the transfer stations targeted by this legislation, as well as about 50 carters who will be adversely impacted by the bill.

In their testimony, NSWMA members explained how they are developing and investing in new technologies that will achieve many of the goals of the supporters of Intro. 1170. NSWMA members stated they are willing to enter into a dialogue with city officials and community groups to address issues relating to the transfer stations, including a responsible level of permitted capacity reduction.