South Carolina Governor considering bill to let businesses recycle plastic in state

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is considering a bill that would let businesses recycle plastic in the state.

The bill was passed by both Chambers of the General Assembly on Thursday after the House and Senate worked out a compromise. The bill is now on the governor’s desk awaiting to be reviewed.

According to U.S. News, supporters of the bill say recycling plastic by melting it to open in state is a safe guinness and good for the environment. Opponents of the bill say melting plastic to recycle is an unproven industry.

Additionally, melting plastic can produce volatile organic compounds, which are fumes that can harm plant and animal life (Sciencing).

Opponents also believe that not enough steps were taken to ensure businesses clean up any pollution caused by melting plastic. Businesses promised to do this for five years after the law goes into effect. This was a compromise that was agreed on after the bill’s original three year requirement.