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# Summary of H.R. 10048: Truth in Labeling Act of 2026 This bill establishes national standards for labeling packaging, food service products, and beverage containers as recyclable, compostable, reusable, or refillable. The legislation aims to eliminate consumer confusion by creating uniform definitions and labeling requirements for these terms, replacing the outdated Federal Trade Commission Green Guides that currently govern environmental marketing claims. The bill applies to all companies that produce or label covered materials sold in the United States, requiring them to comply with specific criteria for each claim type. For recyclable items, producers must ensure materials are collected and processed in facilities serving at least 60 percent of consumers (or 40 percent for qualified claims). For compostable materials, items must meet industry standards and be accepted by at least 50 percent of composting facilities (or 30 percent for qualified claims). Reusable and refillable items must be designed for multiple uses with supporting infrastructure in place. The Environmental Protection Agency (working with the Federal Trade Commission) must establish standardized on-package labels within two years of enactment and publish lists of approved materials every two years. The bill creates an advisory committee with representatives from industry, environmental groups, material recovery facilities, and government to provide guidance. Companies have a two-year grace period after label standards are established before enforcement begins, with violations treated as deceptive practices under the Federal Trade Commission Act. Penalties collected go toward recycling infrastructure and consumer education programs, with no state preemption except regarding plastic resin identification codes.

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