Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright introduced bicameral legislation that would help communities in Pennsylvania manage waste. The Trash Reduction and Sensible Handling (TRASH) Act would allow states to restrict out-of-state waste from entering its borders. This bill would also allow states to impose a community benefit fee, which can be redirected toward communities affected by waste.

“Pennsylvania shouldn’t be a dumping ground for other states’ trash. Many landfills and trash sites across the state are nearing capacity. This bill gives communities a much needed voice by addressing a long overdue issue,” said Rep. Cartwright. “In addition, this bill strengthens and incentivizes standards for recycling, composting, and environmental protection.”

Six landfills have received out-of-state waste in Pennsylvania’s 17th congressional district: Keystone Sanitary Landfill in Dunmore, Alliance Landfill in Taylor, Chrin Sanitary Landfill in Easton, Grand Central Sanitary Landfill in PenArgyl, Pine Grove Landfill in Pine Grove, and the Commonwealth Environmental Systems Landfill in Hegins.

The TRASH Act was first introduced in the 114^th Congress after the Keystone Sanitary Landfill issued a proposal to remain open and expand the size of the landfill. 

U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-Penn.) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.