By Mitch Kramar
My family business and other small metal shredder facilities may be in jeopardy if Senate Bill (SB) 404 authored by State Sen. Anna Caballero, is not amended. The legislation represents an important regulatory framework for large auto shredders that chemically treat auto shredder residue. But this bill also adds layers of duplicative and burdensome requirements that non-automotive shredders have to comply with in order to stay in business. It will wipe us out.
My grandfather started our multi-generational family business in the scrap metal recycling industry with every penny he had in 1950. We have served the community, turning what others discard into valuable materials that support American manufacturing, reduce carbon emissions, and keep our landfills clear. We are rooted in the deep belief that small businesses like ours are the backbone of both the local economy and environmental responsibility. But now, a growing wave of regulatory burdens has begun to threaten our very existence.
The proposed requirements in SB 404 are designed for much larger industrial operations that are treating hazardous waste, which falls under the scope of the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC). Companies like mine already comply with numerous rules, laws, and regulations, and we have made countless investments in pollution controls, safety systems, and environmental compliance. We have had to spend millions of dollars on clean energy mandates along with higher operating costs from insurance, labor, and new permits. All of these costs have strained our financial ability to grow and survive. Businesses like mine have to spend more just to stay in compliance, leaving less for wages, reinvestment, or innovation. The uncertainty will be scary if new regulations over burdening our way of business are enacted.
Small metal shredders do not chemically treat auto shredder residue, shred automobiles, and we are not required to have a thermal oxidizer. These distinct differences should be reflected in any new legislation. Consider each facility affected by the regulations individually, not all as one.
We employ hard-working people who care for their families. We pay taxes, support local vendors, and keep thousands of tons of metal out of local landfills and off of the streets.
We ask the California legislature to stand with us and enact balanced policies that consider the businesses affected by these proposed regulations and not put us at a competitive disadvantage.
Mitch Kramer is the principal owner of the multigenerational family business – Kramer’s Iron and Metal based in Sun Valley.
Very good points made by Kramar. Not all businesses are the same and should NOT be treated as such. Kramar’s business employs hard working people who CONTRIBUTE to the local community and recycling is definitely part of the solution!