Rhode Island House Bill H7064

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/12/22
• Refer: 1/12/22

Caption

Plastic Bottle And Container Labeling Act

Impact

The passage of HB 7064 would have a significant impact on state laws governing the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages. By eliminating the presence of miniature alcoholic containers from retail settings, the bill seeks to reduce litter and minimize the potential for alcohol abuse, particularly among younger demographics. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that allows the sale or distribution of these containers on commercial transportation (such as trains and aircraft) as long as they are collected before disembarkation, which aims to balance public health interests with consumer convenience.

Summary

House Bill 7064, known as the Plastic Bottle and Container Labeling Act, aims to amend existing health and safety regulations concerning the sale of miniature alcoholic beverage containers in Rhode Island. The primary objective of this bill is to prohibit the purchase, sale, or distribution of miniature containers, commonly referred to as 'nips,' which hold no more than one hundred milliliters of liquid. This initiative is rooted in efforts to address public health and safety concerns, particularly regarding the environmental impact of littering associated with these small beverage containers.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its environmental and health-driven purposes, it may also face opposition from certain business interests that could argue this prohibition limits consumer choice and impacts sales. Notably, the discussions around HB 7064 could involve stakeholders such as retailers, transportation companies, and community organizations focused on environmental issues. Opposition may also stem from concerns regarding the economic impact on businesses that sell these products, as well as the necessity and effectiveness of the proposed measures in curbing alcohol consumption.