This bill aims to regulate the use of drinking straws and stirrers at the local level in Florida. It establishes legislative findings that highlight the potential health risks associated with paper straws, particularly due to harmful PFAS chemicals, and emphasizes the need for regulations to be based on scientific evidence. The bill creates a new section in Florida Statutes, 403.7034, which prohibits local governments from enacting any rules or ordinances regarding drinking straws and stirrers that do not comply with specified requirements. By January 1, 2027, local entities must amend existing regulations to allow for the sale and use of straws and stirrers that are renewable, home compostable certified, industrial compostable certified, or marine biodegradable.

Furthermore, if local governments choose to implement regulations, they must ensure that the straws and stirrers meet the aforementioned criteria. The bill also clarifies that it does not apply to straws or stirrers used in prepackaged drinks or in medical and senior care facilities, and it does not mandate local governments to adopt any regulations. The Division of Law Revision is directed to update references to the effective date of the act accordingly. The act will take effect upon becoming law.