SB 343: California's New Recyclability Labeling Law and What Businesses Need to Know Before October 2026

Substantively reviewed: 2026-10-13. General educational information; confirm current requirements with your jurisdiction and qualified counsel.

SB 343: Recycling Label Claims

SB 343 establishes criteria for recyclability claims on products and packaging. The rule concerns labeling; selling a recyclable load is not, by itself, proof that a packaging label meets all criteria.

Current enforcement qualification

CalRecycle reports a July 14, 2026 preliminary injunction blocking SB 343 enforcement. The agency lists October 4, 2026 as the manufacturing-date threshold, subject to litigation. Products made before that date are not subject to these restrictions solely because they are sold afterward. Check the official page and counsel for current status.

Evidence and documentation

Review the latest material characterization findings, packaging specifications, dates of manufacture and other relevant evidence. CalRecycle does not approve individual product labels. Qualifications and exceptions need a product-specific review.

Practical next steps

Have packaging and legal teams review claims before changing labels. Keep supporting evidence, monitor official updates and distinguish actual material recovery from eligibility to make a recyclability claim.

How ICTV may help

ICTV can discuss material recovery pathways and documentation. Label approval and legal conclusions remain outside this service.