The Beverage Container Deposit Act establishes a comprehensive system in New Jersey for the return and recycling of beverage containers, mandating that all filled beverage containers sold in the state be returnable and carry a $0.10 deposit. The act outlines the responsibilities of manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and consumers in the collection and redemption process, including penalties for non-compliance, which can range from $100 to $1,000 per day. It also emphasizes the importance of ensuring that only containers purchased within the state are eligible for refunds, prohibiting the return of out-of-state or non-returnable containers. Dealers are required to provide convenient means for consumers to return empty containers and must accept returns of any beverage container sold by them.

Additionally, the act introduces provisions for the certification of reusable beverage containers and establishes a framework for the operation of redemption centers, detailing their accessibility and operational requirements. It creates several funds, including the Beverage Container Deposit Fund and the Community Pollution Prevention Grant Fund, to manage the financial aspects of the deposit system and support environmental initiatives. The bill also includes a system for managing unclaimed deposits and repeals a provision that would have made the state's existing recycling tax inoperable if a deposit system is established, ensuring the continued effectiveness of the recycling tax. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance recycling efforts, reduce litter, and promote the use of returnable beverage containers in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-96.6