The Beverage Container Deposit Act in New Jersey establishes a comprehensive system for the return and recycling of beverage containers, mandating that all filled beverage containers sold in the state be returnable with a $0.10 deposit. These containers must be clearly marked with "New Jersey" or "N.J." and their refund value. The act prohibits the sale of non-compliant containers by manufacturers, distributors, and dealers, with civil penalties for violations ranging from $100 to $1,000. Dealers are required to accept returns of empty containers and issue refunds, regardless of the original purchaser, while distributors must collect deposits on each container sold. The act also includes measures to prevent fraud, such as prohibiting the redemption of previously redeemed or out-of-state containers.

The bill introduces several amendments to enhance the efficiency of the container redemption system, including prohibiting refunds for containers not purchased in-state and establishing that dealers are not required to refund for containers consumed on-site without a deposit. It mandates the provision of reverse vending machines for returning empty containers and requires manufacturers to use identifiable returnable containers. Additionally, the bill creates multiple funds, including the Beverage Container Deposit Fund and the Clean-Up and Redevelopment Trust Fund, to support environmental initiatives and enforcement activities. The legislation aims to improve recycling efforts, reduce waste, and ensure that redemption centers operate under specific guidelines, while also maintaining the effectiveness of the state's recycling tax.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-96.6