HI HR185

Supports phasing out Hawaii's deposit beverage container recycling program established by Act 176, Session Laws of Hawaii 2002, which placed a 5-cent refundable deposit and 1-cent nonrefundable container fee on beverage containers.

Cites November 2005 audit findings that the Department of Health failed to establish proper accounting systems and that the program's intended environmental benefits were lost due to inefficient redemption processes.

Notes the program has operated at a financial loss since October 2002, with the Department of Health expending more from the special fund than it collected, and the nonrefundable container fee increased from 1 cent to 1.5 cents without adequately covering 2-4 cent handling fees paid to redemption centers.

Supports establishment of an expanded statewide curbside recycling program as an alternative to increase public participation and reduce litter.

Directs transmission of certified copies to the Governor, Director of Health, and all county Mayors.