Bill > A01680

This bill amends the New York Environmental Conservation Law to modify restrictions on expanded polystyrene (EPS) containers used for cold storage, creating specific exemptions for scientific and medical purposes. The bill allows the continued sale and distribution of EPS containers for cold storage of certain specialized items, including: (1) drugs and medical devices as defined by federal law, (2) animal biologics and vaccines regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, (3) medical tissues and biological products defined under federal health statutes, (4) temperature-sensitive samples and laboratory reagents used for testing human, animal, and food safety by various governmental departments, and (5) microbial cultures used in food and beverage manufacturing. The legislation provides nuanced exceptions to what appears to be a broader ban on EPS containers, recognizing the critical need for specialized cold storage in scientific, medical, and food production contexts. The bill has a phased implementation, with different sections taking effect at different times between immediately and January 1, 2035, allowing for gradual adaptation by affected industries and laboratories. This approach balances environmental concerns about polystyrene waste with the practical needs of scientific and medical research and production.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1680