The proposed bill establishes a comprehensive recycling refund program in Washington to improve recycling rates and reduce waste from glass, plastic, and metal beverage containers. It addresses the inefficiencies of the current recycling system, which contributes to environmental issues like greenhouse gas emissions and litter. Key features of the bill include the creation of a recycling refund producer responsibility organization that will oversee the program's implementation, requiring producers to register, pay fees, and provide product information. The Department of Ecology will administer and enforce the program, with producers expected to participate by April 2026. The bill also mandates the establishment of convenient redemption sites and outlines the responsibilities of the Department of Ecology and the recycling refund organization.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new Recycling Refund Program Account to manage funds related to the program, with all receipts collected deposited into this account. It allows taxpayers to deduct charges for the refund value of qualifying beverage containers from their tax measure, provided these charges are itemized on receipts. The legislation also specifies penalties for non-compliance, which will be deposited into the recycling enhancement account, and clarifies that certain existing laws do not apply to the new sections introduced. Overall, the bill aims to create a structured and efficient recycling refund system that promotes environmental sustainability and accessibility for consumers while ensuring accountability among producers and recycling facilities.

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