Bill > SB728

This bill establishes a comprehensive beverage container recycling refund program in Texas, requiring producers to form a nonprofit consortium called the Texas Beverage Container Recycling Consortium to implement a statewide recycling initiative. The program mandates that beverage containers (excluding certain items like milk containers and medical food containers) will have a deposit at point of sale, which consumers can reclaim by returning the empty containers to approved redemption centers. The consortium will be responsible for creating labeling standards, establishing quality standards for recyclable containers, and achieving a recycling rate target of at least 75% by January 1, 2035. A recycling refund trust fund will be created to manage deposits and fund program operations, including redemption center construction, refund payments, consumer education, and program administration. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will provide oversight, with the ability to audit the consortium and potentially require the return of trust fund money if recycling targets are not met. The program is set to begin implementation in 2028, with initial rules to be adopted by September 1, 2026, giving stakeholders time to prepare for the new recycling system. Producers who do not join the consortium can be sued to compel participation, and the program includes provisions for various types of beverage producers and exemptions for small-scale distributors.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB728