Bill > A00602

This bill aims to regulate single-use plastic straws and stirrers in restaurants by introducing new restrictions on their distribution. Specifically, restaurants will only be allowed to provide single-use plastic straws when a customer explicitly requests one, and they are prohibited from asking why the customer wants a straw. Single-use plastic stirrers will be completely banned. Restaurants can still offer alternative non-plastic straw and stirrer options made from materials like paper, sugar cane, bamboo, or compostable materials. If a restaurant provides compostable straws or stirrers, they must have access to curbside food waste composting. When plastic straws are provided, they cannot be individually wrapped in plastic, except for prepackaged beverages. Local health departments will enforce these rules during routine food establishment inspections, with a graduated penalty system for violations: $200 for the first violation, $300 for the second violation within 12 months, and $500 for subsequent violations. However, for the first year after the law takes effect, establishments will receive a warning and information about compliance instead of a penalty. The law will go into effect 120 days after it is signed.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A602