The bill introduced to the Rhode Island General Assembly seeks to create the "Beverage Container Deposit Recycling Act" under Title 23 of the General Laws, aiming to reduce litter and marine debris by implementing a container deposit system. It defines key terms related to the system, such as "beverage," "producer," and "producer responsibility organization" (PRO), and outlines the responsibilities of various stakeholders. The bill mandates that, starting July 1, 2025, no beverage container can be sold or distributed in the state unless the producer is part of a registered PRO operating under an approved producer responsibility plan. It also sets criteria for the selection of a single PRO, which must submit a stewardship plan detailing the operation of programs to meet the chapter's requirements, including performance targets for recycling and reuse rates.

The bill establishes minimum postconsumer recycled content requirements for various types of beverage containers and introduces a fee structure for beverage producers to incentivize environmental responsibility. A refund value of ten cents ($0.10) is set for each beverage container, potentially increasing if redemption rates fall short. The PRO is tasked with funding redemption mechanisms, developing educational materials, and submitting annual reports on program performance. The bill also provides for coordination between the PRO and any future packaging producer responsibility programs, includes provisions for third-party certification, and outlines enforcement measures for non-compliance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024.