Bill > S02351

This bill expands New York's existing bottle bill by broadening the definition of eligible beverage containers and introducing new penalties and regulations. The bill significantly updates the types of beverages covered by the deposit law, now including non-carbonated drinks like sports drinks, teas, and juices, while specifically excluding certain items such as infant formula, instant drink powders, and yogurt products. The legislation introduces new financial and regulatory provisions, including requiring redemption centers to register without cost, establishing penalties for unregistered redemption activities (up to $500 per day with a $25,000 aggregate limit), and creating strict rules around container redemption. Notably, the bill imposes new penalties for fraudulent redemption practices, such as a misdemeanor charge for returning previously redeemed containers, with fines up to $1,000 and potential registration revocation. Additionally, the bill mandates that a portion of the revenue collected from bottle deposits will now be directed to the environmental protection fund, with 5.5% distributed to registered redemption centers quarterly. These changes aim to enhance the effectiveness and integrity of New York's bottle deposit system while expanding its environmental impact.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S2351