Bill > S579

This bill aims to reduce single-use plastics from the environment through a series of measures. Key provisions include: 1. Preventing plastic grocery bags from entering the environment by prohibiting retail establishments from providing single-use plastic bags and instead requiring them to offer reusable bags or recycled paper bags, with a fee charged for the latter. 2. Reducing polystyrene (foam and solid) in the environment by prohibiting food establishments and retail establishments from using, selling, or distributing disposable food service ware made from polystyrene. 3. Reducing plastic straws in the environment by prohibiting food establishments from providing disposable plastic straws, stirrers, or splash sticks, except upon customer request or if the customer has a disability or medical condition. 4. Prohibiting the sale, distribution, and release of helium-filled balloons. 5. Prohibiting the sale of alcoholic beverages in containers less than or equal to 100 milliliters (commonly known as "nips"). 6. Prohibiting the sale or distribution of plastic wet wipes other than those used for medical applications. 7. Prohibiting lodging establishments from providing small plastic bottles containing personal care products to guests. 8. Prohibiting the sale or distribution of bottled water in single-serve plastic containers. 9. Prohibiting the use of black plastic in disposable food service ware. 10. Requiring food facilities and takeout food delivery services to only provide disposable food service ware accessories (e.g., straws, utensils) upon request or at self-serve areas, and to charge for these items. The bill aims to address various sources of plastic pollution and waste in the environment through these targeted measures.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/192/S579