Bill > A01189

This bill amends the New York State Environmental Conservation Law to restrict the color of certain "exempt bags" - which are bags that are otherwise excluded from bag waste reduction regulations. Specifically, the bill prohibits exempt bags from being tinted green or brown unless they are compostable plastic bags. Exempt bags include a wide range of specialized bags such as those used for raw meat, bulk items, prepared food, newspapers, trash, food storage, garments, prepackaged items, restaurant takeout, and prescription medication bags. The key change is that these bags can no longer be colored green or brown (colors often associated with environmental friendliness or composting) unless they are actually certified compostable plastic bags as defined in the existing law. This amendment appears designed to prevent consumer confusion about the environmental status of bags by ensuring that green and brown coloration is reserved only for genuinely compostable plastic bags. The bill takes effect immediately upon enactment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1189