The bill, designated as sHB7271, establishes a working group to study beverage container redemption rates in Connecticut, focusing on various factors such as geographical distribution, out-of-state sales, and the potential impact of increasing the refund value to 10 cents. The group will consist of representatives from state agencies, legislative committees, industry stakeholders, and public health agencies, and is required to hold its first meeting within 60 days of the bill's passage. The working group is tasked with submitting a report with findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2026, and will dissolve upon submission of the report or by that date, whichever comes later.

Additionally, the bill proposes a significant reduction in the fee for infused beverage containers sold by cannabis-related establishments, decreasing it from one dollar to five cents per container. This fee, which is to be remitted to the Department of Consumer Protection every six months, will be used to fund public health and safety initiatives, consumer education, and compliance with cannabis and liquor control laws. The fee reduction will take effect on October 1, 2025, and will apply to sales occurring on or after that date. Notably, the bill does not include any deletions from current law but introduces new provisions regarding the formation and responsibilities of the working group, while also referencing related legislation (SB 1115) that proposes changes to the bottle bill.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill:
FIN Joint Favorable:
File No. 892: