This bill mandates significant reductions in the quantity of plastic packaging and certain plastic products sold, offered for sale, or distributed in New Jersey. Producers are required to decrease the amount of covered material by 10% within two years, 20% within four years, 30% within six years, 40% within eight years, and ultimately 50% within ten years, based on a pre-established baseline. Additionally, starting two years after the bill's effective date, all cardboard packaging must contain at least 75% postconsumer recycled content and achieve a recycling rate of at least 75%. The bill also introduces civil penalties for noncompliance, with fines reaching up to $10,000 per day for violations related to packaging and products.

Furthermore, the bill amends the "Toxic Packaging Reduction Act" to enhance restrictions on the sale of packaging containing harmful substances, prohibiting specific toxic substances such as PFAS, ortho-phthalates, and bisphenols. It establishes a Toxic Packaging Task Force within the Department of Environmental Protection to review the toxicity of packaging materials and recommend additional substances for regulation. The task force will consist of five members, including the Commissioner of Environmental Protection and representatives from the packaging industry and environmental organizations. The bill aims to significantly reduce the environmental impact of toxic packaging materials and promote sustainable practices in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-99.47