This bill amends existing legislation to allow grocery stores in New Jersey to provide single-use paper carryout bags to customers, provided that these bags contain a significant quantity 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 clarifies definitions related to carryout bags and introduces the term "sustainable paper carryout bag" to refer to those that meet the specified recycled content requirements. It also reinforces the prohibition on grocery stores providing single-use plastic carryout bags, while allowing for the use of sustainable paper alternatives. The legislation aims to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmentally friendly practices in the state.

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