The proposed Beverage Container Deposit Act in New Jersey establishes a comprehensive system for the management of beverage containers, mandating that all filled containers sold in the state be returnable and carry a $0.10 deposit. The bill outlines specific requirements for manufacturers, distributors, and dealers, including the necessity for containers to be clearly marked with their refund value and the state name. It imposes civil penalties for non-compliance, ranging from $100 to $1,000 per day, and mandates that dealers accept returns of any empty beverage container sold by them, providing cash refunds. Additionally, the bill introduces provisions to prevent fraud, such as prohibiting the redemption of previously redeemed or out-of-state containers, and establishes penalties for manufacturers who sell non-designated containers.

To enhance the efficiency of the container redemption process, the bill requires dealers to provide reverse vending machines for returning empty containers and mandates the creation of beverage container redemption centers throughout the state. It also establishes several funds, including the Beverage Container Deposit Fund and the Clean-Up and Redevelopment Trust Fund, to manage the financial aspects of the deposit system and support environmental initiatives. The legislation aims to improve recycling rates, reduce litter, and promote environmental sustainability by ensuring proper disposal and recycling of beverage containers, while also addressing the management of unclaimed container deposits and maintaining the effectiveness of the state's recycling tax.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-96.6