Bill > H4020

This bill establishes a special legislative commission to study the feasibility of installing "reverse vending machines" at Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) facilities, which include terminals, stations, and garages, to encourage recycling. The commission will investigate the costs and benefits of these machines, as well as the administrative expenses and practicality of offering reimbursements for recycled items as credits on stored-value cards for MBTA fares. The commission will be composed of seven members: two representatives from the House, two senators, and three appointees by the governor, including representatives from the Department of Transportation and the Department of Environmental Protection, and a member from an environmental non-profit. The commission is to be formed within 60 days of the bill's effective date and must submit its final report and recommendations within one year of its first meeting.