The bill H.915 establishes an extended producer responsibility program for beverage containers in Vermont, amending 10 V.S.A. chapter 53. It repeals the definition of biodegradable material and introduces new definitions for beverage containers, explicitly excluding carbonated beverage containers larger than three liters. The deposit system is modified to set a five-cent deposit for most beverage containers and a 15-cent deposit for liquor containers over 50 ml. Additionally, the handling fee for non-commingled beverage brands is increased from four to five cents per container, with the stipulation that this fee does not apply to beverages under an approved stewardship plan. Manufacturers and distributors are required to join a Secretary-approved producer responsibility organization by January 1, 2027, and submit a stewardship plan by April 1, 2028.

The bill also introduces a new section outlining minimum requirements for stewardship plans, including convenient collection points and fair compensation for redemption centers. It sets ambitious redemption rate goals of 75% by July 1, 2029, and 80% by July 1, 2032, while mandating reporting on redemption centers and recycling outcomes. The bill establishes a Fund with accounts for solid waste management, hazardous waste management, and electronic waste recycling, detailing revenue sources and disbursement authorizations. It also includes a repeal of the redemption center certification requirement effective March 1, 2028, and specifies effective dates for various provisions, with the overall act taking effect on July 1, 2026.

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