December 1, 2010
WDEL 1150 AM
GOP lawmaker slams "bottle bill" replacement
Delaware's "bottle bill" has been replaced by a temporary bottle fee that's part of a universal recylcing law, a move a Republican state lawmaker doesn't like.
The 30-year-old "bottle bill" required Delawareans to pay a 5-cent deposit on beer and soda bottles.
In a statement, Ocean View Representative Gerald Hocker says he doubts the 4 cent-per bottle fee, aimed at financing a state recycling fund meant to kick-start the program, will expire in 2014 as promised by its supporters, including Governor Markell.
Hocker adds most stores in Sussex County get their beverages from suppliers in neighboring Maryland, costing them hundreds, if not thousands, in deposit fees.
The recycling measure's also facing a legal challenge, because it passed the state House by a 26 to 12 vote, 5 votes short of the three-quarters majority mandated by Delaware's Constitution for any law that would give state funds to municipalities or corporations.
http://www.wdel.com/story.php?id=826509176673
