18. a. There is established in the Department of the Treasury a special, non-lapsing account to be known as the “Recycling Enhancement Penalty Account.” The account shall be credited with all penalties collected pursuant to section 16 of this act, and any interest or investment income earned on monies in the account. Moneys in the account may be utilized by the department for administrative expenses incurred in connection with the enforcement or implementation of this act, for the public education program required pursuant to subsection b. of this section, and for other efforts to support recycling markets in the State as the department may determine.

b. The department, in consultation with the Association of New Jersey Recyclers and the organization under contract with the department to administer the Clean Communities Program pursuant to section 6 of P.L.2002, c.128 (C. 13:1E-218), shall develop and implement a Statewide public information and education program to encourage, support, and increase the recycling of rigid plastic containers, plastic beverage containers, glass containers, paper carryout bags, plastic carryout bags, and any other containers or packaging products, which may include, but need not be limited to, television, radio, and print advertisements, signage, or classroom education.

L.2021, c.391, s.18.