Bill > S436

This bill establishes a working group to investigate and report on recyclable alternatives to polystyrene food and beverage containers, with the goal of making recommendations for legislative and regulatory changes. The working group will be comprised of eight members, including the co-chairs of the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture, designees from the Department of Environmental Protection, Department of Housing and Economic Development, and the Massachusetts Department of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation, as well as representatives from franchise associations and the Environmental League of Massachusetts. This group will examine the environmental and economic feasibility of alternatives to polystyrene, considering the impact of a potential ban on its use by January 1, 2019, and will seek input from various experts and stakeholders. The working group is mandated to submit its findings and recommendations, including proposed legislation and regulations, to the Joint Committee on the Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture and the clerks of the House and Senate within nine months of its first meeting.