The State Commission of Investigation report into the presence of corruption and criminals in solid waste and recycling released today urges that statutory licensing and other requirements be established for individuals involved in recycling.
The report, stating that it was established long ago that the solid waste industry is ripe for infiltration by organized crime, points out that the escalating cost of trash disposal and the dwindling number of landfills places a premium on every load of trash collected, and serves as an incentive to unscrupulous haulers.
“It is long past time for meaningful reform,’’ the report states.
The report stated that “the most obvious of these statutory loopholes, of course, is the complete absence of any provision setting forth licensing requirements and regulatory standards for individuals and entities engaged in most forms of recycling.’’
The report states that the governor and Legislature should consider off-budget, self-funding mechanisms, including special licensing fees, as part of a coordinated attempt to shield the solid waste and recycling businesses from “unsavory elements.’’
Earlier story:
SCI report says N.J. commercial waste industry open to abuse, criminality
Waste management financial disclosure bill raises issues of transparency
Four vetoes, but Lesniak’s waste management bill gets through Christie’s net
