BILL NUMBER:  S6195A

 TITLE OF BILL :  An act to amend the environmental conservation law,
in relation to permitting the use of recyclable beverage container
packaging

 PURPOSE :

To expand the definition of allowable plastic beverage containers to
include those made of at least 90% post-consumer recycled high density
polyethylene and have no holes greater than 1 X inches in diameter.

 SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS :

Section one of the bill would modify Environmental Conservation Law
Section 27-1011(3) by adding a provision to existing law which would
expand the definition of allowable plastic beverage container handles.
It would allow those containers which include those made of at least
90% post-consumer recycled high density polyethylene and have no holes
greater than 1 % inches in diameter

Section two is the effective date.

 JUSTIFICATION :

The original language of the Bottle Bill seeks to minimize
              

environmental impact and danger to wildlife by requiring that plastic
connector rings degrade either through biodegradation or the exposure
to light. Since the enactment of the Bottle Bill, additional
sustainable and environmentally friendly connectors have been
developed. These products are not recognized under current law.

The new carriers have prohibitively small holes, so wildlife cannot be
entangled, are made from highly recyclable High Density Polythethylene
and may be recycled in residential curbside recycling programs.
Therefore, they will not populate landfills or have the ability to
harm fish and wildlife.Further, the environmentally friendly packaging
eliminates the need for paperboard packaging, creating a further
environmental benefit.

These beverage carriers are frequently used by the nascent and growing
craft beverage industry in New York. The ability of small businesses
to avail themselves of this environmentally friendly packaging means a
greater ability to sell their craft products and support the economy.
At the time the original legislation was written, there was no
contemplation of these plastic beverage holding devices. As a result,
legislation is necessary to ensure that this packaging can continue on
the market and assist in the economic success of New York.

 LEGISLATIVE HISTORY :

New Bill.

 FISCAL IMPLICATIONS :

None.

 LOCAL FISCAL IMPLICATIONS :

None.

 EFFECTIVE DATE :
This act shall take effect immediately