There has been concern expressed around Concord about some of the language in the draft of the state's updated bottle bill. Seems what we think about bottles here takes on added weight in many quarters: we are now seen as a source of moral direction following our vote at Town Meeting in April to ban bottled water sales here. Two of the concerns about this draft bill are that it seems to cover only bottles over 16 oz, and those less than 2 liters. A concerned Concordian wrote to our State Representative, Cory Atkins about this, and her office sent along the inquiry through the proper legislative channels. The reply is below: at least the 16 oz concern seems to be the result of a typo! No idea what the corrected language will be, and no response on the 2 liter max issue. But the inquiry seemed to get the right attention!
From: "Hornby, Kathleen (HOU)" <Kathleen.Hornby@state.ma.us>
Date: Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:35:41 -0400
Subject: RE: bottle bill question
Brad Putnam in Representative Atkins' office came to me with your question about the new draft of the Updated Bottle Bill, S. 2547, because Representative Wolf is the lead sponsor in the House.
Actually, I'm very glad that you brought this to my attention! I completely understand your concern about the language setting the minimum redeemable beverage container size at 16 ounces. I've asked about this language, and have been assured that it is a typo and will be corrected. We will be keeping an eye on it.
Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns.
Best,
Kathleen M. Hornby
Staff Director
Office of Representative Alice K. Wolf
State House Room 167
Tel: 617-722-2810
Fax: 617-722-2197
