Michigan's 50-year-old bottle deposit system facing scrutiny

Michigan’s bottle deposit system is facing renewed scrutiny after the state’s return rate fell to 69.4% in 2025, which marked its lowest level in decades. The decline is renewing debate over the policy. Independent grocers say the current system is costly, time-consuming and creates health and safety concerns. Shoppers who rely on the 10-cent deposit say it remains an important incentive to recycle.