Massachusetts Senate Bill S2830

Massachusetts 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/17/24

Caption

To reduce plastics

Impact

The passage of S2830 is expected to significantly alter the environmental landscape of Massachusetts by regulating the use and sale of plastics across various sectors, including retail and food services. By prohibiting the distribution of single-use plastic bags and requiring fees for paper alternatives, the bill aims to encourage consumers to shift towards more sustainable practices. Furthermore, it establishes the Plastics Environmental Protection Fund to finance educational initiatives and support small businesses in transitioning away from plastic dependency. This fund will also provide low-income communities with reusable bags and educational resources, thus addressing environmental justice concerns.

Summary

Senate Bill S2830, known as the Massachusetts Plastics Reduction Act, aims to establish a comprehensive framework for reducing plastic usage within the state. This legislation seeks to limit the distribution of single-use plastics and mandates state agencies to promote the use of reusable bags while providing a fee framework to incentivize reductions in plastic usage. Specifically, retailers are required to charge for recyclable paper bags but can only distribute reusable bags to customers as allowed under the bill's guidelines. The bill also establishes a statewide program for recycling plastic materials and fund management to promote environmental health within communities that are disproportionately affected by plastic pollution.

Contention

Although the bill has substantial support from environmental groups emphasizing its potential to mitigate plastic pollution, there are notable points of contention. Critics argue that the imposed fees on paper bags may disproportionately affect low-income families who may not be able to absorb the additional costs. There are also concerns regarding the practical implementation of the bill’s provisions and the potential burdens placed on small businesses, particularly those with limited financial resources. The bill's prohibition of local ordinance creation in conflict with state regulations could lead to tensions between state and local governments over environmental strategies.

Voting_history

The bill was reported by the committee on Senate Ways and Means on June 17, 2024, with a dissenting opinion from Senator Fattman. It was subsequently voted on June 20, 2024, where it received overwhelming support with 38 votes in favor and only 2 against, indicating widespread legislative agreement on the need for plastics reduction initiatives.