The bill, sHB7271, establishes a working group to study beverage container redemption rates in Connecticut, focusing on various factors such as current redemption rates, the impact of out-of-state sales, and the effects of increasing the refund value of beverage containers. The group will include representatives from relevant state departments, legislative committee members, industry stakeholders, and public health agencies, and is required to submit a report with findings and recommendations to the General Assembly by January 1, 2026. The working group is expected to operate without fiscal impact, as it will utilize existing resources.

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 reduction, effective October 1, 2025, applies to sales occurring on or after that date and is intended to support public health initiatives and compliance with cannabis and liquor control laws. The bill also outlines that the fee will be remitted to the Department of Consumer Protection every six months, and it anticipates an annual revenue loss of approximately $250,000 to the consumer protection enforcement account due to this reduction.

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