WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HD 2923

An Act to create fees for single use beverage containers

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Michelle Ciccolo

Massachusetts bill creates fees on single-use beverage containers to reduce waste and change consumer purchasing behavior, but raises concerns about costs for low-income residents and implementation complexity.

0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 2923

Legislative bill overview

HD 2923 proposes implementing a fee system on single-use beverage containers in Massachusetts. The bill would establish a financial disincentive for consumers purchasing beverages in disposable containers, with revenue potentially directed toward environmental or recycling programs.

Why is this important

Single-use beverage containers represent a significant portion of litter and landfill waste, contributing to environmental degradation and marine pollution. Such fees have been implemented in other jurisdictions and are designed to shift consumer behavior toward reusable alternatives while generating revenue for waste management initiatives.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic burden on low-income consumers - Regressive impact falling disproportionately on households with lower incomes who may be less able to absorb additional costs
  • Industry opposition and job concerns - Beverage manufacturers and distributors may oppose the fee as a cost burden, with potential arguments about impacts on competitiveness and employment
  • Implementation and enforcement complexity - Questions about how fees would be collected, refunded, administered across retailers, and whether exemptions would apply to certain beverages or container types
  • Cross-border purchasing - Potential for consumers to purchase beverages outside Massachusetts to avoid fees, reducing effectiveness
  • Adequacy of revenue allocation - Unclear how collected fees would be distributed and whether proceeds would meaningfully fund environmental or recycling infrastructure improvements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.