This bill amends existing legislation to allow grocery stores in New Jersey to provide single-use paper carryout bags to customers, but only if these bags contain a significant amount of postconsumer recycled content. Specifically, the bill stipulates that the paper bags must meet or exceed the postconsumer recycled content requirements established in a previous law, which mandates that paper carryout bags contain, on average, at least 40 percent postconsumer recycled content, or at least 20 percent for bags that hold eight pounds or less.

Additionally, the bill reinforces the prohibition on single-use plastic carryout bags, which will remain in effect. It also includes a provision that prevents municipalities or counties from enacting their own regulations regarding single-use plastic or paper carryout bags after the bill's effective date. The legislation aims to reduce plastic pollution and promote the use of more sustainable materials in grocery stores, aligning with broader environmental goals. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-99.126, 13:1E-99.127, 13:1E-99.128