The fee should reduce illegal dumping since local governments will be able to establish or improve tire recycling programs, hopefully making it easier and less expensive for tire dealers, truck stops, fleet managers, and individuals to recycle tires rather than sending them to a landfill or the arroyo on your property. NMRC has been active in working to get these Bills passed by contacting legislators and passing the word to our members. Below is a letter from Jay Morrow, NMRC president, to the sponsor of both Bills- John A. Heaton. The diversion of used tires from landfills and the reuse of tires through recycling represent a significant effort by and cost to local government. Reinstating the Tire Recycling Grant Program will insure that local diversion programs have the necessary resources to manage this waste responsibly and for the benefit of all of New Mexicans.
Used tires are all but impossible to landfill.
Their resilient nature causes them to continually move toward the surface. This is evidenced by countless, old, closed landfills checkered by hundreds of used tires on the surface. These are safe harbors for the breeding of mosquitoes and nesting of rodents. Accumulated tire piles have shown an uncanny ability to catch fire, which creates numerous environmental hazards. On the other hand, tires and tire bales have proven uses as a recycled product.