Bill > S00773

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to create specific exemptions for expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers used in cold storage for certain scientific, medical, and agricultural purposes. The bill allows the continued sale and distribution of EPS containers for cold storage of medical devices, animal biologics, vaccines, diagnostic kits, tissue samples, temperature-sensitive laboratory samples, and microbial cultures used in specific scientific and food production contexts. These exemptions apply to containers used by various government departments and laboratories, including agriculture, health, and food safety agencies, as well as for shipments to and from food processing plants, breweries, and wineries. The bill modifies previous restrictions on EPS container sales, creating carefully defined exceptions for specialized scientific and medical uses where such containers are crucial for maintaining sample integrity during transportation and storage. The bill has a staggered implementation, with different sections taking effect at different times between the immediate future and January 1, 2035, allowing for a gradual transition and adaptation period for affected industries and organizations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S773