HI HB179

Requires deposit beverage distributors selling containers in Hawaii to meet minimum postconsumer recycled content OR minimum non-petroleum materials content requirements for deposit beverage containers.

Establishes escalating content requirements: 15% by December 31, 2028; 25% by December 31, 2033; and 50% by January 1, 2035 (measured by weight or alternative metric determined by the department).

Defines non-petroleum materials as materials from non-petroleum feedstocks including agricultural crop residues, yard clippings, wood waste, nonrecyclable paper, corrugated cardboard, and cotton waste products.

Exempts plastic caps, lids, and labeling from content requirements; requires non-petroleum materials used to be fully recyclable and compatible with existing PET recycling infrastructure.

Authorizes the Department of Health to enforce the requirements through rulemaking, including adjusting percentages, establishing reporting requirements, determining qualifying non-petroleum plastics, and imposing penalties or fees.