February 16, 2011
SC bill requiring beverage deposit gets no support
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — A proposed recycling law that would add a nickel to the cost of every bottled and canned beverage in South Carolina is losing its fizz.
The proposal would require customers to pay the extra money upfront, which they could get back by returning their empties to a redemption center. It also puts requirements on manufacturers and retailers.
Supporters say the bill is meant to encourage recycling and reduce litter.
But opponents call the proposal a tax that will cost businesses and customers more. A House panel voted unanimously to adjourn debate Tuesday. Members don't expect to revive discussion.
Ten states currently have a beverage-deposit law. The idea started in the early '70s in Oregon and Vermont. Delaware repealed its bottle-deposit law last year.
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-02-16/sc-bill-requiring-beverage-deposit-gets-no-support.html
