SALEM (AP) — A statewide paint recycling program could begin as soon as January under a recently passed bill the governor is expected to sign.

The four-year pilot project will make recycling more convenient throughout the state, particularly in areas without existing programs. Almost one-third of Oregon’s 36 counties do not recycle paint — the state’s number-one household hazardous waste.

Paint companies would operate and pay for the program that will be developed with help from the Department of Environmental Quality.