The proposed bill establishes a comprehensive recycling refund program in Washington to improve the collection and recycling of glass, plastic, and metal beverage containers. It addresses the inefficiencies of the current recycling system, which contributes to environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and litter. The legislation introduces a recycling refund producer responsibility organization responsible for overseeing the program's implementation, including the collection and processing of beverage containers. Producers will be required to register, comply with program requirements, and finance the initiative through fees. The Department of Ecology will enforce the program, provide consumer education, and maintain a registry of redemption sites, with significant milestones set for 2026 and 2027.

Key provisions of the bill include the establishment of a Recycling Refund Advisory Council, which will consist of diverse representatives to oversee the activities of the producer responsibility organizations. The bill mandates that retail establishments larger than 20,000 square feet sell standard bags for a bag-drop program and allows for express redemption sites. It also sets a refund value of 10 cents per covered beverage container and exempts related transactions from taxation. Additionally, the bill creates a Recycling Refund Program Account to manage funds and outlines penalties for non-compliance, ensuring a structured and equitable system for recycling beverage containers while promoting environmental sustainability and community engagement.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 82.19.050
Substitute Bill: 82.19.050
Second Substitute: 82.19.050, 70A.245.100