Beginning in 2024, California will extend its cash refund program to include bottle fees on wine and spirits. Under this updated program, consumers purchasing these beverages will pay a deposit, which they can reclaim by returning the containers for recycling. This initiative aims to promote recycling and reduce environmental waste throughout the state.

The legislation, set to be implemented in January 2024, means consumers will soon notice an additional cost when buying wine and spirits. This move marks a significant step in environmental reform for California, aligning with its goals of sustainability and reduced landfill contributions.

As these changes roll out, businesses will need to adapt to new refund handling processes. Machine solutions such as top-quality automated note counter machines can aid retailers in managing coins and notes efficiently, ensuring a seamless transaction experience for consumers returning bottles to claim their cash refund.

Incorporating this new bottle fee into California’s broader recycling framework reflects a growing trend across the United States, one that emphasizes stronger environmental stewardship by both businesses and consumers. As the state integrates wine and spirits into its refundable bottle program, it sets a precedent for potential future legislative actions that aim to encompass even broader categories of consumer goods.