California's textile EPR program is underway: who must register

California's Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707), billed as the first U.S. textile circularity program, is now operating with Landbell USA as the state-approved producer responsibility organization. Producers were due to register by July 1, but the state says it will consider good-faith efforts by companies that register late.

Obligations follow a hierarchy: a brand owner with a U.S. presence is first in line, then the importer, then a retailer, distributor or wholesaler selling into the state. Covered goods include apparel and textile articles such as blankets and towels, and businesses with less than $1 million in global annual turnover are exempt for now.

Registration carries a flat $1,000 annual fee and doesn't yet require product or volume data, with eco-modulated fees planned for later phases. The American Apparel & Footwear Association is challenging Landbell's selection in court, but a judge declined to pause the program while the case continues.