To justify the higher beer prices, managers point to the overall price increase in January, when nearly all beer distributors raised prices to cover their own container recovery and reprocessing expenses.

Some managers say that they support the legislation, maintaining that the inconveniences they suffer area a worthy price to pay for the cuts in litter and the resource savings. They often complain, however, because they feel that a loophole in the law lets distributors get away with disposing the used containers, rather than recycling them.

Bert J. Garry, press spokesman for the Executive Office of Environment Affairs-the agency in charge of administering the bill-denies these charges. He concedes that not all of the returnables are recycled into bottles or cans, but he insists that they are used for other products, such as aluminum siding and plastic insulation.

"There is a market for the recycled products and materials, "he says," and the distributors are trying to do their part. "He adds that the office is encouraging the distributors to move to the production of reusable bottle to further conserve resources.

However, the majority of the retail stores and bars in the Square see no significant difference in profits or in customer business as a result of the bill.

"People come to this bar because they like the atmosphere, not because we have Beck's beer," says Meehan of the Boathouse.

Leo McCarthy, manager of Varsity Liquor says he finds no lag in sales, commenting "it's a privilege to buy drinks, not a necessity--people are willing to pay the price."

Nearly all manager agree that customer demand continues the some as usual. Store 24 Manger Gregory E. Higgins comments of the bill. "It's a hassle, but what the beck--we're in business."