Bill would require sports venues to allow empty reusable water bottles up to 24 ounces

Chuck Corcoran, presenting on behalf of a sponsor, asked the committee to support House Bill 639, which would require owners and operators of professional and collegiate athletic facilities to allow attendees to bring empty reusable beverage containers up to 24 ounces and permit in-venue refill stations.

Corcoran said the change would reduce single-use plastic waste generated at stadiums and arenas, potentially cutting the hours and costs associated with post-event cleanup. He cited examples of venues that already allow reusable bottles and refill stations, including Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle and facilities in Washington, D.C., and Salisbury University. The bill would apply to attendees who bring empty bottles for water only; refilling and sales would be managed inside the venue.

Committee members asked about security and disease-transmission concerns. Corcoran and supporters said the policy applies to empty containers only and that refill stations are typically managed in a way that reduces contact risk; one supporter noted that reusable refilling can be safer than shared public fountains. Fiscal-note concerns about enforcement and potential revenue impacts at some venues were raised and noted as issues the sponsor would address off the record.

No committee vote was recorded during the hearing.