Posted by A federal judge has temporarily blocked a new law requiring return deposits on water bottles sold in New York state starting June 1.
Federal Judge Thomas Griesa issued an order after a hearing Wednesday that will stop enforcement of the law while a lawsuit proceeds.
Water bottlers had sued New York officials after they authorized the new law, which expanded 5-cent deposits beyond carbonated beverages, wine coolers and beer.
In a release, Nestle Waters North America urged the state Legislature and governor to change the law.
According to Nestle Waters, a new date for the law to take effect has not yet been set. The judge will entertain recommendations from both sides. Today was the last chance legislators had to amend the law before it kicked in.
Its chief executive officer, Kim Jeffery, said the company strongly supports laws that encourage recycling, promote consumer health and apply to all beverages. But he said the New York Bottle Bill failed to accomplish those goals.
