Bill > S525

This bill aims to reduce single-use plastics from the environment through several key provisions: 1. Plastic Grocery Bags: Retail establishments can only offer reusable grocery bags 18 months after enactment, with a transition period allowing single-use and recycled paper bags. Municipalities' existing plastic bag regulations will be preempted. 2. Polystyrene Foam: One year after enactment, food and retail establishments cannot use, sell, or distribute disposable food service ware made from polystyrene foam or solid polystyrene. 3. Plastic Straws: One year after enactment, food establishments cannot provide disposable plastic straws, stirrers, or splash sticks, except upon customer request due to disability or medical condition. 4. Helium Balloons: The sale, distribution, and release of helium-filled balloons is prohibited, with exceptions for scientific/meteorological purposes and hot air balloons. 5. "Nips" (100ml Alcohol Containers): One year after enactment, the sale of alcoholic beverages in containers 100ml or less is prohibited. 6. Plastic Wipes: Retailers cannot sell or distribute plastic wet wipes other than for medical applications. 7. Hotel Toiletry Bottles: Lodging establishments with over 50 rooms cannot provide small plastic toiletry bottles starting in 2024, with smaller establishments following in 2025. 8. Plastic Water Bottles: Retailers cannot sell bottled water in single-serve plastic containers, with exceptions for emergencies. 9. Black Plastic: One year after enactment, food and retail establishments cannot use, sell, or distribute disposable food service ware made from black plastic. The bill also includes provisions to support restaurants, improve plastic bottle design, and restrict toxic substances in certain products.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S525