The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) is actively pursuing advocacy efforts across multiple states while strengthening technical programs, according to recent updates from leadership.

Legislative Progress

In California, CRI continues biweekly meetings with sponsors of AB 80, known as the AB863 "clean up" bill, working alongside the California Product Stewardship Council to clarify uncertainties in the state's carpet stewardship law. Meanwhile, the industry prepares to implement AB863 requirements, reported Jenn Stowe, VP of government relations, CRI. 

New York has seen significant advancement in antitrust legislation, with CRI's lobbying efforts resulting in bills in both the Senate and Assembly. The Senate bill has passed, while the Assembly version is beginning to move through the legislative process. CRI hopes both measures will be signed promptly to provide necessary antitrust protections for member implementation programs.

CRI also maintains monthly meetings with New York's Department of Environmental Conservation regarding the NY Carpet Collection Program law, collaborating with the Synthetic Turf Council and Carpet Cushion Council. The department held a virtual stakeholder meeting on June 11th as part of its rulemaking process.

Illinois saw familiar territory with the introduction of HB 1876, marking the tenth consecutive year carpet Extended Producer Responsibility legislation has been proposed. The bill, identical to previous versions except for updated dates, failed to advance from committee before the May 31st session end.

Technical Developments

CRI's Green Label Plus team is rewriting the program's Quality Manual and Processes and Procedures Manual to improve clarity and user experience, with publication expected in July. Director of Technical and Programs Darrell Hagan recently completed ANSI National Accreditation Board training on ISO 17065 standards ahead of the annual compliance audit.

Hagan continues chairing the Institute of Inspection Cleaning & Restoration Certification (IICRC) S100 committee, which meets biweekly to revise carpet cleaning standards.

Vice President of Government Relations Jenn Stowe has participated in multiple industry conferences, including events in New Orleans, Gettysburg, Nevada, and St. Louis, while contributing to planning for the Flooring Sustainability Summit scheduled for Washington, D.C., July 15-17.