AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- BEVERAGE CONTAINER DEPOSIT RECYCLING ACT

This bill proposes creating a new beverage container deposit recycling program in Rhode Island to reduce litter and increase recycling rates. It would establish a system where consumers pay a small refundable fee when buying eligible drinks in containers like plastic, glass, or metal, which they can get back by returning empty bottles to designated drop-off facilities. The Department of Environmental Management would oversee the program, while manufacturers and importers would be responsible for funding and managing the collection efforts through designated nonprofit organizations. The law specifically defines which products are covered, such as single-use drinks between 50 milliliters and three liters, while excluding items like milk and infant formula.