Oregon's bottle bill faces backlash amid safety concerns and homelessness crisis

In Portland, Oregon, residents have experienced significant issues since a bottle redemption center was established in their neighborhood. Monica Truax, a long-time Portland resident, reported increased drug dealing, violence, and garbage problems in the area, linking these troubles to the center's presence. The bottle redemption initiative has been a lifeline for various individuals, including those struggling with homelessness, creating a complex dynamic in the community. The bottle bill, implemented in Oregon in 1971 as the nation's first, originally aimed to encourage recycling by requiring consumers to pay a deposit on beverage containers, which is refunded upon return. Over the decades, this program expanded to include more types of containers and raised the deposit amount to its current 10 cents. Although other states have adopted similar measures, criticism has emerged regarding Oregon's model, particularly concerning the local convenience stores inundated with returning customers, especially during late hours. Business owners expressed serious concerns for employee safety, especially in all-night establishments. Jonathan Polonsky, the president and CEO of the Plaid Pantry chain of convenience stores, highlighted the dangers posed by some customers cashing in containers for drug money, particularly in light of the fentanyl crisis. This led to calls for changes to the bottle bill to limit container returns at night, which some believe would help mitigate the associated risks and hardships on local businesses. Legislation is being discussed which would allow retail stores to refuse container returns after 8 PM, potentially reducing safety concerns for employees. In response to the increasing pressure on retailers, nonprofit organizations might play a role in managing alternative redemption sites in urban areas, helping shift the burden away from convenience stores. The ongoing debate suggests significant community challenges associated with homelessness and safety linked to Oregon's bottle redemption law.