Bill > H917

This bill introduces the Sustainable Food Service Ware Act, which aims to reduce packaging waste by establishing new requirements for food service ware in retail food establishments. The legislation defines several key terms, including "compostable" (which requires materials to meet specific American Society for Testing and Materials International Standards and be free from certain chemical substances), "disposable food service ware" (which covers a wide range of single-use food containers and utensils), and "recyclable" (materials that can be sorted and reconstituted through local municipal collection programs). Starting January 1, 2027, all retail food establishments will be required to use only food service ware that is either compostable, recyclable, or reusable. The bill covers various food service items like containers, plates, cups, straws, and utensils, and applies to restaurants, food trucks, and other food service operations. The Department of Environmental Protection will be responsible for creating and enforcing regulations to implement these requirements, with the ultimate goal of reducing waste and promoting more sustainable food packaging practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H917