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 paper bags must meet or exceed the postconsumer recycled content requirements established in previous legislation, 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 clarifies definitions related to carryout bags and introduces the term "sustainable paper carryout bag" to categorize those that meet the new recycled content standards. The legislation aims to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmentally friendly practices in grocery stores while ensuring that any paper bags provided are made from recycled materials.

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