I am closing the longest-running redemption center in Maine due to a lack of employees. Redemption centers are closing throughout the state. The Maine bottle bill is the most effective and efficient recycling system in the country. It was initially passed as an anti-litter bill – a goal that it has successfully done. The state must act quickly to save this industry.

Over the years, I have employed many people with different challenges: recovering addicts, convicted felons, work release inmates and homeless people. One of my best employees was a man with intellectual disabilities. In 27 years, he called in sick just once. These people must be supported by our elected officials.

The Legislature sets the handling fee paid to the redemption centers by distributors. We do not have any prices to raise to offset inflation. We cannot give our employees raises without the Legislature increasing the handling fee.

There are actions the state can take to save this valuable industry and our valued employees. First, the state could give redemption centers a temporary half-cent raise in the handling fee to offset inflation. Second, to assist in retaining employees, the state could give the employees a temporary payment to equal roughly a $2 raise.

The payment would go directly to the employee, ensuring they get the payment. The way to accomplish this is to link the payments to 941 filings. An amount equal to 16 percent of their quarterly wages would be about $2 per hour. 

This temporary plan would help Maine’s redemption industry to weather these unique times.

Don Cook
South Portland