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SB 416

Trade: containers; bottle deposit law; expand. Amends title & secs. 1, 2, 3c, 3e & 3f of 1976 IL 1 (MCL 445.571 et seq.); adds secs. 2b, 3g, 3h, & 5a; repeals sec. 2a of 1976 IL 1 (MCL 445.572a) & provides for a referendum.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sean McCann

SB 416 expands Michigan's beverage container deposit law with amendments affecting deposit systems and container types, subject to voter referendum approval.

REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT
#environmentalprotection:recyclingandwasteutilization #trade:containers
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 416

Legislative bill overview

SB 416 expands Michigan's bottle deposit law (the Beverage Container Deposit Act of 1976) by amending and adding several sections while repealing others. The bill modifies how beverage containers are regulated under the deposit system and requires a public referendum to finalize the changes.

Why is this important

Bottle deposit laws influence consumer behavior around recycling, waste management costs, and environmental outcomes. Changes to Michigan's system could affect how businesses handle containers, what consumers pay at purchase and redemption, and the state's overall waste stream composition. The referendum requirement means voters will ultimately decide whether these expansions proceed.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of expansion unclear: The bill summary doesn't specify which container types are added (e.g., wine bottles, energy drinks, ready-to-drink cocktails), making it difficult to assess industry and consumer impact without the full text
  • Deposit amount and redemption logistics: Amendments to sections covering deposit rates and redemption could increase costs for retailers and beverage producers or alter consumer incentives
  • Environmental vs. economic trade-offs: Expanded deposits may improve recycling rates but could burden low-income consumers, small retailers, and out-of-state businesses operating in Michigan differently than current law

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

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