Substitute Bill No. 6606 is a legislative proposal aimed at reducing the use of expanded polystyrene products in educational institutions and food service businesses. The bill mandates that by July 1, 2024, all school districts, regional school districts, regional vocational technical schools, and constituent units of higher education must develop a plan to stop using trays made from expanded polystyrene by July 1, 2025. This includes preparing for the termination or amendment of any contracts for the purchase of such trays by July 1, 2024. The bill defines "expanded polystyrene" as thermoplastic petrochemical materials made using a styrene monomer and includes various manufacturing processes.

Additionally, the bill prohibits restaurant and caterer owners or operators from providing or distributing single-use containers made of expanded polystyrene to consumers, effective July 1, 2024. Violations of this provision will result in a warning for the first offense and escalating fines for subsequent offenses, with a maximum of one violation per day. Certain exceptions apply, such as containers filled and sealed prior to receipt by the restaurant or caterer, or containers used by butchers or stores for raw meat. Enforcement can be carried out by local health departments or agents of the Departments of Public Health, Consumer Protection, and Energy and Environmental Protection, with fines partially remitted to the municipality where the violation occurred. The bill also requires a joint report by February 1, 2025, from the Commissioners of Public Health, Consumer Protection, and Energy and Environmental Protection regarding enforcement and the potential need for hardship waivers. The bill does not prohibit the manufacture or sale of single-use containers by entities other than restaurants or caterers, nor does it preempt more restrictive municipal ordinances. Certain healthcare facilities are exempt from the restrictions.