The bill amends Chapter 53 of Title 10 of the Vermont Statutes, focusing on the beverage container deposit-redemption system. It repeals the definition of "biodegradable material" and introduces new definitions such as "dealer," "deposit initiator," and "point of redemption." The legislation clarifies that beverage containers made of biodegradable materials are excluded from the deposit system and specifies that containers over three liters are also excluded. It establishes a new reimbursement structure for retailers and redemption centers, increasing handling fees for commingled beverage containers and introducing fair compensation requirements for containers under stewardship plans. Additionally, stricter requirements for liquor bottle redemption are set, including a 15-cent deposit and a handling fee of four and one-half cents per container.

The bill mandates that deposit initiators participate in a Secretary-approved producer responsibility organization by January 1, 2027, which must be registered as a nonprofit and capable of administering stewardship plans. It outlines the responsibilities of these organizations, including maintaining a public website and charging fees for administrative costs. Stewardship plans must be submitted by April 1, 2028, ensuring convenient redemption opportunities and educational efforts to increase redemption rates. The Secretary will review these plans and has the authority to dissolve non-compliant organizations. The legislation also includes provisions for independent audits, sets redemption rate goals, and allows for the transfer of unclaimed deposits to support solid waste management initiatives. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with certain provisions staggered for gradual implementation.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-53, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618
As Passed By the House -- Official: 10-53, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 10-53, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 10-53, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618, 10-1523, 10-1532(a)(2), 10-1532, 10-1532(a), 10-1528, 10-7182, 10-7183, 10-7187
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 10-53, 10-1523, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618, 10-1532(a)(2), 10-1532, 10-1532(a), 10-1528, 10-7182, 10-7183, 10-7187
As Enacted: 10-53, 10-1523, 10-7714, 10-1388, 10-6618, 10-1532(a)(2), 10-1532, 10-1532(a), 10-1528, 10-7182, 10-7183, 10-7187