Rhode Island

The 2008 Rhode Island Bill

Under S2771, Rhode Island's existing plastic bottle labeling law would be amended to add a 5¢ deposit to all beverage containers sold in the state (except aseptic and biodegradable containers) and implement a bar code labeling system.
Bill Number and Name S2771 Bill text
Primary Sponsor Senate Majority Leader Theresa Paiva-Weed
Containers Covered any sealable beverage container composed of glass, metal, plastic or a combination and is produced for the purpose of containing a beverage. Excludes biodegradables, aseptics, and foil pouches
Beverages Covered carbonated and non-carbonated, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including packaged liquors and liquid mixes
Deposits 5¢
Reclamation System Return to dealer or redemption center
Unredeemed Deposits 75% go to general fund; 25% used to fund program and other recycling initiatives

Details

In addition to setting up a deposit-redemption system, HB 2771 would also require bar-code labeling to indicate its sale in Rhode Island. It would also ban the use of plastic rings or other non-biodegradable materials to bind beverage containers together.

The bill's primary sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Theresa Paiva-Weed, is a strong recycling proponent and recently held a recycling summit to discuss the relevant issues.

Progress

February 27, 2008: Introduced and referred to Senate Environment and Agriculture Committee

April 23, 2008: Committee recommended measure be held for further study

June 3, 2008: Bill passed the Senate and was referred to House, for hearing on June 17

Contacts

 

Updated June 17, 2008