California recycling target met

At press time, the State's Integrated Waste Management Board was expected to announce that the 1995 recycling rate was 25.2%. Had the target not been met, packagers would have been forced to demonstrate compliance through alternative means. Efforts to pass legislation repealing the tough rigid plastics container law appeared headed for failure, but the food industry scored a major victory. The proposed repeal bill has been amended, with the current law to remain in place but a permanent exemption granted to food, beverages and cosmetics. "This is a reasonable settlement, and we feel good about it," said Dan Colegrove, manager of state affairs in GMA's Sacramento office.