Bill > SB465

This bill amends existing California law to clarify regulations around "slack fill," which is the empty space in a package. Essentially, it aims to prevent deceptive packaging by defining what constitutes "nonfunctional slack fill" – empty space that isn't for a legitimate reason like protecting the product, accommodating machinery, or allowing for necessary labeling. The bill provides a detailed list of acceptable reasons for slack fill, such as for product protection, machine requirements, unavoidable settling, space for mandatory labeling, decorative containers with independent value, minimum package sizes for handling or security, visible product dimensions, headspace for mixing or dispensing, inclusion of dosing devices, kits designed for a specific result, in-store display units, holiday gift packages, or when a free sample is included. The bill states that slack fill is only a violation if it is nonfunctional, and it also outlines procedures for seizing and condemning deceptive containers.