This bill establishes regulations regarding the local governance of drinking straws and stirrers in Florida. It prohibits local governmental entities from enacting any rules or ordinances that do not comply with specific requirements outlined in the bill. The legislation emphasizes the need for regulations to be based on scientific evidence and aims to promote uniformity across the state, preventing a patchwork of local laws. The bill also highlights the potential health risks associated with paper straws, particularly for individuals with disabilities, and seeks to provide better alternatives to single-use plastics.

Under the new section 403.7034, local entities that choose to regulate drinking straws and stirrers must ensure that these products are renewable, home compostable certified, industrial compostable certified, or marine biodegradable. Additionally, any existing regulations that do not meet these criteria must be amended by January 1, 2027. The bill clarifies that it does not mandate local governments to adopt any regulations regarding straws and stirrers, and it specifies certain exceptions where the regulations do not apply, such as prepackaged drinks and medical facilities. The Division of Law Revision is tasked with updating references to the effective date of the act.