This bill seeks to repeal the existing law that prohibits the sale or distribution of single-use plastic carryout bags, single-use paper carryout bags, polystyrene foam food service products, and single-use plastic straws in New Jersey. Additionally, it amends the law related to the Clean Communities Program Fund by removing a $500,000 appropriation that was designated for a public information and education program concerning reusable carryout bags. The current law also includes monitoring by a Plastics Advisory Council and imposes fees on establishments that violate these regulations, with the collected fees going to the Clean Communities Program Fund.

The sponsors of the bill argue that the ban has led to an increase in waste due to the production and accumulation of unused bags and straws, as well as a rise in the consumption of alternative bags that are often non-recyclable. They cite research indicating that plastic bag bans have resulted in increased pollution from manufacturing and a significant rise in the purchase of plastics. The bill is designed to take effect 60 days after enactment, allowing businesses time to replenish their supplies of the previously banned items.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 13:1E-217