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

This bill establishes a beverage container deposit recycling program in Rhode Island to reduce litter and increase recycling rates for single-use drinks. Under the new system, consumers would pay a small fee when purchasing eligible containers made of glass, plastic, or metal, which they can redeem at drop-off facilities for a refund. The Department of Environmental Management will oversee the program, while designated producer responsibility organizations will manage compliance for manufacturers and distributors. The law defines specific rules for which products are covered, how producers are identified, and the standards for recycled content in new packaging.