New Jersey Assembly Bill A2065

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/3/22
• Refer: 2/3/22
• Report Pass: 2/7/22
• Report Pass: 3/17/22
• Engrossed: 3/24/22
• Enrolled: 3/24/22
• Chaptered: 3/25/22
• Passed: 3/25/22

Caption

Amends applicability of law prohibiting sale and distribution of plastic and paper carryout bags to food banks and food pantries; appropriates $600,000.

Impact

The bill significantly impacts state laws by reinforcing the prohibition of single-use plastic and paper bags in certain contexts while simultaneously taking steps to mitigate the environmental effects of waste from these materials. By preempting local regulations, the bill centralizes the rules governing this issue, potentially reducing the administrative burden on businesses required to adjust to varying local laws. The state is also taking a proactive approach by providing funding to assist food pantries, likely increasing their capacity to operate under the new requirements.

Summary

Bill A2065 amends existing regulations concerning single-use carryout bags by specifically addressing their provision at food banks and food pantries. Under the amended law, beginning 24 months after its effective date, food banks and pantries are prohibited from providing single-use plastic carryout bags to customers. This change aims to align food distribution practices with state efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote environmental sustainability. Additionally, the bill allocates $600,000 from the General Fund to support the distribution of reusable carryout bags to food banks across the state, which is intended to facilitate compliance with the new regulations.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around Bill A2065 appears positive, especially among environmental advocates and state lawmakers focused on sustainability. Proponents see the bill as a logical extension of previous efforts to curb plastic waste and support community organizations in the process. However, there may be concern regarding the implications for food banks in terms of operational flexibility and the potential increase in costs associated with switching to reusable bags. Advocates for public health and environmental responsibility typically frame the bill as a necessary step toward a more sustainable future.

Contention

While overall support for Bill A2065 is apparent, there are notable points of contention, particularly regarding the implications for food banks. Critics may express concerns that prohibiting single-use plastic bags could complicate operations for organizations that rely on them for efficiency, potentially leading to operational constraints. There may also be a debate regarding how effectively the allocated funds will assist food banks and whether the distribution of reusable bags will be adequate to meet community needs, particularly in areas serving a large population.