The bill H.915 establishes an extended producer responsibility program for beverage containers in Vermont, amending 10 V.S.A. chapter 53. It introduces new definitions such as "dealer," "deposit initiator," and "point of redemption," while repealing the definition of biodegradable material. A deposit of five cents is mandated for most beverage containers, with a higher deposit of 15 cents for liquor containers. The bill outlines a reimbursement structure for retailers and redemption centers, increasing handling fees for commingled beverage containers and ensuring fair compensation for those involved in the stewardship plan. Additionally, it requires all beverage containers sold in Vermont to have a Universal Product Code and barcode, clarifying the responsibilities of retailers and distributors in the redemption process.

The bill also mandates that deposit initiators must participate in a Secretary-approved producer responsibility organization by January 1, 2027, and establishes a stewardship plan to be submitted by April 1, 2028. This plan must ensure convenient redemption opportunities and fair compensation for redemption centers, with stakeholder consultation emphasized. The bill sets ambitious redemption rate goals of 75% by July 1, 2030, and 80% by July 1, 2033, while allowing for independent audits and requiring annual reporting on redemption rates and environmental impacts. It also creates the Solid Waste Management Assistance Account to fund waste management initiatives and shifts the compensation model for redemption centers to a negotiated structure. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, with certain provisions having staggered effective dates.

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