HI HB2196

Repeals Hawaii's deposit beverage container program (5-cent refund system) on June 30, 2026, ending requirements for distributors to pay deposit fees on beverage containers

Provides a one-year redemption period until June 30, 2027 for consumers to return empty containers and receive refunds

Establishes a new solar panel and electric vehicle battery recycling special fund to support gathering and recycling of these items

Transfers remaining unencumbered funds from the deposit beverage container deposit special fund to the new solar panel and EV battery recycling fund when the program ends

Requires the Department of Health to submit proposed legislation by 2027 to establish a formal program for collecting and recycling solar panels and electric vehicle batteries