LANSING, MI (AP)-- Michigan's Department of Environmental Quality is talking with business and environmental groups about a plan to encourage more recycling that could change the state's bottle and can deposit law.
Voters in 1976 imposed a 10-cent deposit on soft drink and beer containers. Kerrin O'Brien of the Michigan Recycling Coalition says it's been a big success, as 97 percent of the affected containers are turned in for the refund.
A department draft plan would give grocery stores and other retailers the option of continuing to accept returned bottles and cans. It would establish "redemption centers" around the state where people could turn in those containers and other materials such as paper, metals and plastic.
The department says a final version is expected next year after further consultation with interested groups.
