The bill H.119, introduced by Representative Branagan, aims to expand Vermont's beverage container redemption system by including cider, hard kombucha, noncarbonated water, and noncarbonated soft drinks. It also proposes to increase the deposit on beverage containers from five cents to ten cents. The definitions of "beverage" and "container" are amended to incorporate these new categories, and specific definitions for cider and hard kombucha are added. Additionally, the definition of "soft drink" is aligned with existing law.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that a deposit of ten cents will be required for each beverage container sold at retail, with a higher deposit of fifteen cents for larger liquor containers. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2026. This legislation seeks to enhance recycling efforts and promote environmental conservation by encouraging the return of beverage containers.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1521, 10-1522