Houston Daily

Congressman Dan Crenshaw (R-TX) and Congressman Gary Palmer (R-AL) have introduced the Recycling Technology Innovation Act, a bill aimed at providing regulatory clarity for advanced recycling technologies in the United States. The legislation seeks to address inconsistent federal regulations that have created uncertainty for companies investing in plastics recycling.

Advanced recycling technologies break down plastic waste into its original molecular components, allowing these materials to be reused in new products. While these processes are already operational in several states, varying interpretations of federal law have made it difficult for companies to plan and invest.

“Our problem isn’t plastics—it’s plastic waste,” said Crenshaw. “If we want cleaner communities, stronger supply chains, and real environmental gains, then we should be empowering the innovators who are turning waste into value. This legislation does exactly that. It provides common sense regulatory certainty manufacturers need and supports an industry critical to the Houston area's economy and workforce. Instead of chasing headlines or demonizing entire industries, we’re solving a real problem with a real policy solution that benefits workers, families, and the environment."

The bill aims to resolve confusion stemming from unclear applications of the Clean Air Act by ensuring advanced recycling facilities are regulated as manufacturing units rather than as waste incinerators. This approach would align federal rules with those in 25 states that already treat advanced recycling as manufacturing.

“Advanced recycling is good for the environment and good for the economy,” Crenshaw continued. “It keeps plastic waste out of landfills and out of our communities. It strengthens American manufacturing. And it helps ensure that places like Houston—home to one of the nation’s largest plastics and chemical manufacturing hubs—remain at the forefront of U.S. energy and industrial innovation.”

Supporters say establishing consistent regulations will help manufacturers plan production more effectively, build new facilities in the U.S., maintain supply chain efficiency, create jobs, attract investment, reduce waste, and boost American competitiveness.

Crenshaw has represented Texas's 2nd congressional district since 2018 after defeating Todd Litton in that year's general election with 52.8% of the vote compared to Litton's 45.6%. He won reelection against Sima Ladjevardian in 2020 with 55.6% of votes versus Ladjevardian's 42.8%, against Robin Fulford in 2022 with 65.9% over Fulford's 34%, and most recently defeated Peter Filler in 2024 by securing 65.7% compared to Filler's 34.3%.

Advanced recycling converts used plastics into feedstocks for repeated use in manufacturing processes—a method intended to keep valuable materials circulating within the economy rather than ending up as landfill waste.