Bill > SB5502

This bill establishes a comprehensive recycling refund program for beverage containers in Washington state, with the goal of improving recycling rates and reducing litter. The legislation creates a system where consumers pay a 10-cent deposit on glass, plastic, and metal beverage containers, which they can reclaim by returning the containers to designated redemption sites. Producers of beverage containers must join a nonprofit recycling refund producer responsibility organization, which will oversee the program's implementation. The organization will be responsible for creating a network of convenient redemption sites, including express and full-service locations, and ensuring that the program meets performance targets, such as achieving a 65% redemption rate by the end of the second year and 80% by the end of the fifth year. The bill also establishes a recycling refund advisory council to provide oversight and recommendations, and includes enforcement mechanisms with potential penalties for non-compliance. The program aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, decrease litter, support a circular economy, and provide economic opportunities for recycling infrastructure. The bill is designed to make recycling more accessible and financially incentivized for consumers while holding producers responsible for the environmental impact of their beverage packaging.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5502&Year=2025&Initiative=false