In response to potential Oregon Bottle Bill Container Deposit Increase.
In 2011 the Oregon Legislature passed House Bill 3145, which requires that if, beginning in 2014, the redemption rate of Oregon Bottle Bill containers falls below 80 percent for two consecutive years, the 5 cent deposit shall increase to 10 cents.
Last week the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) reported a rate below 80 percent for 2014 and 2015 and scheduled an increase in the deposit to 10 cents effective April 1, 2017.
Oregon Beverage Recycling Cooperative (OBRC) and the Northwest Grocery Association (NWGA) are working through the opportunities and challenges this change will bring. An increase in volume is expected, however the specific outcomes of a deposit change are unknown. Oregon will be the first state in the nation to increase a previously established deposit amount.
In an effort to prepare for the April 2017 increase in volume, OBRC and NWGA will continue to site, build and operate BottleDrop Redemption Centers, add features for nonprofit fundraising, provide a 20 percent bonus for deposits via the BottleDrop PLUS program and work in conjunction with state and environmental organizations to provide community education and customer convenience.
