Bill > H3474

This bill expands Massachusetts' existing "bottle bill" by making several significant changes to the state's beverage container deposit and recycling system. The bill increases the deposit value from 5 cents to 10 cents per eligible beverage container and broadens the definition of "beverage" and "beverage container" to include more types of drinks and containers. It establishes a new Clean Environment Fund that will receive funds from unclaimed deposits, with money earmarked for environmental protection programs, recycling infrastructure, and water system improvements. The bill introduces new concepts like a "bag-drop program" for container returns and requires a universal product code on containers to track redemptions. It mandates periodic reviews of handling fees and refund values by the Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs, with specific redemption rate targets: 65% by 2027, increasing to 95% by 2033. The legislation also requires dealers to post redemption information signs, creates reporting requirements for beverage container sales and recycling, and mandates a study on developing a reusable beverage container return and refill system. Additionally, the bill exempts smaller dealers (under 2,000 square feet) from certain requirements and provides more detailed definitions and administrative procedures for the state's beverage container recycling program.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H3474