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California senators considering bill to shift regulation of scrap metal recyclers to the state
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California senators considering bill to shift regulation of scrap metal recyclers to the state

  • CALLIE RHOADES/The Oaklandside

A bill before the California Senate would shift regulation of scrap metal recycling facilities to the state, rather than local agencies. Supporters, including the recyclers, say it would streamline permitting and create certainty for such companies. However, the bill says if companies are operating under the terms of their permits, the shredded metal they produce would not be considered hazardous waste. Alameda County sued Radius Recycling over a 2023 fire that released toxic smoke for days. Under the proposed bill, the county says it would not have been able to sue. The county argues any regulatory framework should be more protective of public health, safety, and the environment.