Bill > HB290

This bill establishes a comprehensive prohibition on polystyrene food containers in Pennsylvania, effective July 1, 2025. The legislation bans food establishments from dispensing prepared food in polystyrene foam or solid plastic containers, including items like cups, plates, and clamshell-style containers, as well as polystyrene utensils and straws. Retailers are also prohibited from selling polystyrene food service containers, with exceptions for meat trays, egg cartons, and packing materials. The Department of Environmental Protection will oversee enforcement, developing a website with compliance information and a complaint procedure. Penalties escalate for repeated violations: $500 for the first offense, $1,000 for the second, and $2,000 for third and subsequent violations. Critically, the law preempts any local ordinances that might conflict with its provisions, ensuring a uniform approach to polystyrene container regulation across the state. The bill's primary intent is to reduce the environmental impact of single-use polystyrene containers by eliminating their use in food service settings.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=290