Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association applauds House vote for bottle bill tax credit legislation

June 12, 2024

House Bill 5546 would create tax credit based on the number of recyclable containers sold by a distributor

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association (MB&WWA) today applauded bipartisan support in the state House for legislation that would invest in Bottle Bill infrastructure and ensure the system operates efficiently for all Michiganders.

 

House Bill 5546, sponsored by Rep. Will Snyder, D-Muskegon, passed the House 103-7 with overwhelming bipartisan support and now moves to the Senate for consideration.

 

“Distributors invest over $60 million to recycle approximately two billion containers per year on behalf of the State of Michigan,” said Brett Visner, vice president of public affairs for the MB&WWA. “Sustained reinvestment in the Bottle Bill is crucial for maintaining infrastructure and system efficiency. House Bill 5546 will help accomplish that, providing Michigan beer and soft drink distributors a tax credit equal to a half-cent per returnable container sold.”

 

Since 1989, when the Legislature diverted unclaimed deposits to the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Michigan retailers, no funds have been reinvested into the Bottle Bill system's infrastructure. The total cost of operating the Bottle Bill has been borne by distributors. In 2008, a tax credit covering 28.5% of the costs associated with the Bottle Bill was established, but this credit was eliminated in 2011 with the phasing out of the Michigan Business Tax.

 

“With return rates dropping to historic lows, it is time to get serious about a long-term funding solution,” Visner said. “The strong bipartisan support of House Bill 5546 is significant and a crucial step toward restoring Michigan’s Bottle Bill to its former status as best in the nation.”

 

House Bill 5546 creates a tax credit based on the number of recyclable containers sold by a distributor and makes the State of Michigan a partner in the restoration and long-term viability of Michigan’s Bottle Bill.

Detroit News: Celebrating Michigan’s Family-Owned Beer and Wine Distributors

By Rebecca Stow • June 23, 2026
On June 23, National Family-Owned and Operated Businesses Day offers an opportunity to recognize the local companies that form the backbone of Michigan’s economy. Among them are the state’s beer and wine distributors—independent, family-owned businesses that have been serving their communities for decades. These are multigenerational operations rooted in Michigan communities, where leadership is often passed from one generation to the next. Their longevity reflects not only business success, but a deep commitment to the people and places they serve. When I began my work with the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association two decades ago, the industry looked very different. Today, Michigan consumers enjoy an unprecedented variety of choices, supported by advanced logistics, compliance systems, and strong retail partnerships. That evolution has been driven in large part by family-owned distributors who continue to invest in their people, infrastructure and communities. Their local ownership gives them a unique understanding of the retailers and consumers they serve. It also means decisions are made with a long-term perspective—focused not just on growth, but on sustainability and community impact. Thoughtful alcohol policy helps ensure a fair and competitive marketplace, protects public health and safety, and allows businesses of all sizes to thrive. By maintaining strong relationships with lawmakers and industry partners, Michigan’s beer and wine distributors have helped modernize laws while preserving the structure and accountability of the proven three-tier system. As we recognize family-owned businesses across the state this June, it is worth celebrating the role Michigan’s beer and wine distributors have played for decades and will continue to play in the years ahead. Their strength lies not only in their ability to adapt, but in the values that have guided them from the beginning: local ownership, strong relationships, and a commitment to doing business the right way. Spencer Nevins is president of the Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association in Lansing.

Mid-Michigan beer distributor celebrates 65 years in business, three generations of family leadership

By Rebecca Stow • May 4, 2026
OWOSSO, Mich. – Main Beverage Company marks 65 years in business this year, celebrating three generations of family leadership and a legacy rooted in mid-Michigan.

Ypsilanti beer distributor partners on limited-edition release for Ann Arbor Summer Festival

By Rebecca Stow • April 14, 2026
YPSILANTI, Mich. – Local, family-owned beer distributor O&W Inc. in Ypsilanti is celebrating its collaboration with Michigan-based Griffin Claw Brewing Company to develop a limited-edition Session IPA for the upcoming Ann Arbor Summer Festival (A2SF).