(a)
Except as provided in subdivision (c), an action solely to increase the recycling of architectural paint by a producer, stewardship organization, or retailer that affects the types or quantities being recycled, or the cost and structure of any return program, is not a violation of the statutes specified in subdivision (b).
(b)
The following statutes are not violated by an action specified in subdivision (a):
(1)
The Cartwright Act (Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 16700) of Part 2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code).
(2)
The Unfair Practices Act (Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 17000) of Part
2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code).
(c)
Subdivision (a) shall not apply to any agreement establishing or affecting the price of paint, except for the architectural paint stewardship assessment, or the output or production of paint, or any agreement restricting the geographic area or customers to which paint will be sold.