States take aim at ubiquitous "chasing arrow" symbol on products that aren't recyclable

One of the most recognized logos of the last half-century, the recycling symbol, is about to get tossed.

California is set to become the second state to restrict the use of the widely known "chasing arrows" symbol. The state Assembly is on the verge of passing a bill that criminalizes putting the symbol on any item that isn't recyclable as deemed by the state's environmental regulator. In doing so, it follows neighboring Oregon, which eliminated the "chasing arrows" symbol from plastic containers and is creating a task force to examine environmental labeling as part of sweeping legislation that makes packagers more responsible for their waste. New York introduced a bill in May to eliminate the three arrows from any nonrecyclable item.