CT SB00457

Requires beverage container stewardship organizations to submit applications to the DEEP Commissioner by December 1, 2027, with plans demonstrating ability to achieve 80% annual redemption rates and financial self-sustainability

Mandates distributors remove accumulated empty beverage containers within 7 days of written notice from dealers or redemption centers, with fines for violations

Requires DEEP Commissioner to study the effectiveness of anti-fraud measures by December 31, 2026, and seek Attorney General opinion on state-specific container labeling if redemption rates remain problematic (above 100% or below 75%)

Prohibits dealers from collecting refund values on containers not purchased in Connecticut, with class B misdemeanor penalties for 5,000+ containers and class A misdemeanor for 20,000+ containers in a year

Increases escheat payments to the General Fund starting FY 2028 based on redemption rates: 25% if redemption is at least 75%, scaling up to 100% if redemption falls to 60% or less