A New Bottle Bill
After 4 Decades of Success it is time for a Vital Update
Time for a Change
The legislation would increase the redeemable deposit value to 10-cents and the handling fee from 3.5 cents to 7 cents. These changes will ensure that redemption centers and redeemers have the ability to grow and prosper in a competitive economy.
More than just beer and soda cans
Expand the range of beverage containers covered by the Bottle Bill. New York would not be the first state to include non-carbonated beverages, wine, and liquor. Maine’s Bottle Deposit Law includes all containers covered in New York’s existing Bottle Bill plus wine, spirits, hard cider, and most non-carbonated beverages. Maine has a 5-cent deposit for all beverages, except wine and liquor, which have a 15-cent deposit. Other states with Bottle Deposit Laws that include non-carbonated beverages include California, Hawaii, and Oregon.
A greater value
Increase the amount of the deposit to a dime. The impact of the nickel deposit that was approved in 1982 has eroded over time. A mere inflation update would likely make that deposit nearly fifteen cents. And in order to ensure that those who wish to redeem their deposits can easily do so, we also recommend that a portion of the additional revenues collected by the state be used to ensure better compliance and enhance access to redemption entities. Michigan and Oregon have already increased their deposit to 10 cents, leading to an immediate increase in recycling redemption rates.