While I believe very deeply in preserving and supporting the environment, the “Bigger Better Bottle Bill” is, quite simply, not the right answer.

Starting October 31st, retailers are required to charge an extra nickel per bottle of water sold.  Bottled water is often sold in cases of 20 or 24, which could add more than a dollar to the price of water at the register.

This bill was proposed and approved for the wrong reasons – it exists  because Governor Paterson wanted the extra estimated $100 million in revenues from unclaimed deposits.

In a time when the economy is tough, why should NYS be excited about people losing out on a five cent deposit that they are entitled to?

Has Governor Paterson investigated why citizens will fail to return their water bottles?

• Is it because they are elderly or disabled, and it would be difficult for them to do so?  You would think being disabled himself, Governor Paterson would be sympathetic to this group.

• Is it because of a technicality?  For example, my nephew frequently rips the label off of his water bottles.  However, that is where the bar code is, and if it is missing, the person does not get his deposit back.

• Is it because people are too busy to make an extra trip to the store and wait in line?  Families often are running around to soccer practice or school plays, and this is just one more step the government is making them do.  That family could continue to put their empty bottles out with the recyclables, but they would lose out on their deposits.

In addition, why is New York State essentially discouraging people from drinking bottled water, the healthiest thing you can do for your body.  I can understand discouraging cigarettes, Twinkies, or carbonated beverages – but water?

The bottom line:  While NYS is celebrating their ‘victory,’ residents are missing out on $100 million a year because they are choosing to drink a healthy choice.