The California Integrated Waste Management Board implements the Recycled-Content Newsprint Program pursuant to Public Resources Code (PRC) Sections 42750-42791 and Title 14, California Code of Regulations (14 CCR) Section 17950 et seq. This program mandates the use of a specified amount of recycled-content newsprint by printers and publishers (consumers) located in California.
Any person who does not comply with the statutory requirements for the program may be found guilty of an infraction and/or may be subject to civil penalties. For example, 14 CCR Section 17974(b) authorizes the Board to assess consumers a $500 penalty for filing the annual certification 45 or more days late and $1,000 for filing 90 or more days late (or not filing). PRC Sections 42780–42782 also direct the Board to refer to the California Attorney General for prosecution for fraud any false or misleading certifications as to the recycled content of newsprint or reasons why a consumer was unable to obtain newsprint containing the required minimum recycled content.
The enforcement orders page includes information on some program enforcement actions.
For more information contact: Buy Recycled, buyrecycled@calrecycle.ca.gov