Bill > HB232

This bill establishes the Maryland Beverage Container Recycling Refund and Litter Reduction Program, a comprehensive system designed to increase recycling and reduce waste from beverage containers. The program will require a 10-cent deposit on containers 24 fluid ounces or less and a 15-cent deposit on larger containers, with the goal of achieving a 90% redemption rate by 2032. Starting in 2028, beverage containers sold in Maryland must display the refund value and the letters "MD" or the word "Maryland". Retailers will be required to accept returned containers and provide refunds, and a new Beverage Container Stewardship Organization will be created to manage the program's logistics, including setting up redemption facilities, tracking containers, and implementing education and marketing efforts. The bill also creates a Redeemable Beverage Container Recycling Refund Advisory Council to provide guidance, establishes a grant program to support recycling and reuse projects, and includes provisions to prevent fraud. The ultimate objectives are to reduce litter, increase recycling rates, provide high-quality recycled materials, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and incentivize the use of reusable beverage containers. The program will be funded through registration fees, unclaimed deposits, and penalties, with a focus on making container redemption convenient and accessible across the state.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/HB0232?ys=2025RS