Auxiliary Containers, Wrappings, and Disposable Plastic Bags
The removal of the state preemption means that local governments and agencies will gain the authority to implement their own regulations concerning auxiliary containers, wrappings, and disposable plastic bags. This could lead to a more tailored and localized approach to environmental concerns, allowing communities to address their unique challenges related to plastic waste and recycling. Local ordinances may include restrictions, taxes, or outright bans on certain types of plastic bags, which reflects a growing awareness and proactive measures towards sustainability.
House Bill 6023 aims to amend Section 403.7033 of the Florida Statutes to remove the state preemption on the regulation of certain auxiliary containers, wrappings, and disposable plastic bags. The legislation recognizes the importance of prudent regulation of recyclable materials for the welfare of Florida's ecology and economy. To facilitate this change, the Department of Environmental Protection is tasked with updating its 2010 report concerning retail bags by evaluating the need for new regulations and gathering feedback from various stakeholders. This comprehensive report, due by December 31, 2021, will inform any legislative recommendations regarding these materials.
The bill could spark contention among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that giving local governments the ability to create regulations allows them to better respond to their community's needs and environmental goals. In contrast, opponents may view this as a potential fragmentation of regulations, leading to a confusing patchwork of local laws that businesses would need to navigate. The discussions around this bill will likely weigh the necessity of local autonomy in environmental policy against the desire for statewide uniformity in the regulation of plastic waste.