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U.S. Congressman Randy Weber, R-Texas, on Wednesday introduced the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act of 2025<\/a> to establish the first voluntary federal standard for environmental claims on packaging and put an end to misleading \u201cgreen\u201d labels that confuse consumers and undermine real recycling efforts.<\/p>\n \u201cAcross the country, a patchwork of state regulations has resulted in unverified claims like \u2018recyclable,\u2019 \u2018compostable,\u2019 and \u2018reusable\u2019 to appear on packaging, often without any connection to real-world recycling or composting systems,\u201d Weber\u2019s office said in a statement. \u201cThis confusion has made it harder for consumers to know what can actually be recycled and has weakened legitimate environmental initiatives.\u201d<\/p>\n The PACK Act aims to address this problem by promoting science-backed, industry-driven standards for environmental labeling. Under the legislation, companies may only make environmental claims if those claims are scientifically verified and recognized by existing recycling or composting programs, ensuring \u201chonesty and transparency\u201d without imposing new mandates.<\/p>\n \u201cAmericans want to do the right thing, but misleading labels make that harder,\u201d Weber<\/strong> said. \u201cThe PACK Act cuts through that confusion. It\u2019s pro-environment, pro-business, and rooted in common sense, all while holding companies accountable and giving consumers clear, honest information they can trust.\u201d<\/p>\n Industry leaders have praised the legislation\u2019s approach.<\/p>\n \u201cAMERIPEN<\/a> applauds Rep. Randy Weber for introducing the Packaging and Claims Knowledge (PACK) Act and supports the PACK Act\u2019s creation of a federal framework for recyclable, compostable, and reusable claims for consumer packaging under the Federal Trade Commission (FTC),\u201d said Lynn Dyer, President of AMERIPEN<\/strong>. \u201cThis new framework will address concerns with the patchwork of state regulations and its negative effect on interstate commerce and consumer awareness regarding management of consumer packaging. AMERIPEN will continue to support Congressman Weber as he moves this critical legislation through the House of Representatives.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe Plastics Industry Association thanks Congressman Weber for introducing the PACK Act,\u201d said Matt Seaholm, PLASTICS President and CEO<\/strong>. \u201cPlastic packaging is essential to modern life\u2014protecting products, keeping food fresh, and ensuring medical supplies arrive safely\u2014yet companies and consumers are currently navigating a complex landscape of rules around recyclable, compostable, and reusable packaging claims. This growing patchwork not only creates regulatory uncertainty but also has the potential to increase costs and contribute to broader affordability concerns.<\/p>\n “The PACK Act would establish a clear national framework under the FTC, reducing uncertainty and supporting businesses operating across state lines. As an industry that employs more than one million Americans, we appreciate Congressman Weber\u2019s leadership on this important issue that strengthens U.S. manufacturing and consumer confidence.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe welcome the introduction of the PACK Act for creating a single, national framework for packaging claims,\u201d said Peter DePasquale, Vice President, Government Affairs, Keurig Dr Pepper<\/strong>. \u201cBy setting clear, national standards and certifications through credible third parties, this legislation helps ensure consumers receive accurate information while giving companies the consistency they need to innovate and accelerate investment in sustainable packaging solutions nationwide.”<\/p>\n The full bill text is available here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n