This bill amends the existing law regarding the minimum percentage of postconsumer recycled content required in certain plastic trash bags sold in New Jersey. Specifically, it reduces the requirement for plastic trash bags that are equal to or greater than 1.00 mil thick from 40 percent to 20 percent postconsumer recycled content. The bill also establishes new requirements for different thicknesses of plastic trash bags, mandating that those greater than 0.70 mils but less than 0.80 mils contain at least 5 percent recycled content initially, increasing to 10 percent after five years. For bags greater than 0.80 mils but less than 1.00 mils thick, the requirements are set at 10 percent initially and 20 percent after five years.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that these recycled content requirements do not apply to bags designed for hazardous or regulated medical waste. The changes aim to make compliance easier for manufacturers while still promoting the use of recycled materials in plastic trash bags. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.