The proposed bill aims to enhance recycling and waste reduction in Washington by establishing a comprehensive recycling refund program for glass, plastic, and metal beverage containers. It addresses the inefficiencies of the current recycling system, which struggles to effectively collect and recycle a significant number of beverage containers, contributing to environmental issues. The bill requires producers to join a recycling refund producer responsibility organization, implement a statewide waste reduction and recycling program, and adhere to various reporting and fee requirements. A key feature of the program is to incentivize consumers to return used containers, thereby increasing recycling rates and reducing litter.

The legislation also mandates the creation of a recycling refund producer responsibility organization to oversee the program, including establishing a fee structure and maintaining a registry of beverage containers. The Department of Ecology will administer and enforce the new regulations, which include penalties for non-compliance. The bill introduces a provision allowing taxpayers to deduct charges for the refund value of qualifying beverage containers from their tax measure, provided these charges are itemized on receipts. Additionally, it amends existing litter tax laws to exclude the refund value charges from taxation, ensuring clarity in definitions related to prepared food and nonsingle use containers. Overall, the bill aims to create a structured and equitable recycling system that promotes environmental sustainability and community engagement.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.19.050
Substitute Bill: 82.19.050