New Jersey Assembly Bill A4173

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/2/22
• Refer: 6/2/22

Caption

Exempts egg cartons from law prohibiting polystyrene foam food service products.

Impact

If enacted, A4173 would result in changes to the New Jersey legislation regarding polystyrene use. While the overarching goal is to reduce environmental hazards associated with polystyrene waste, the exemption for egg cartons reflects a carve-out for a specific use-case that supporters argue is necessary for the food service industry. The bill would effectively allow food service businesses to resume using these egg cartons without facing legal penalties, thus making them more accessible for grocery stores and restaurants.

Summary

Assembly Bill A4173 seeks to amend existing legislation concerning polystyrene foam food service products in New Jersey. Specifically, it aims to exempt egg cartons made from polystyrene foam from a law that prohibits the use of such materials in food service products. The bill was introduced to permit the sale and use of these cartons, directly addressing a gap in regulations that previously included all polystyrene products under a ban, potentially impacting the availability of egg cartons in food service businesses.

Contention

The bill may face opposition from environmental advocacy groups and legislators concerned about the implications of further entrenching polystyrene in food packaging. Critics may argue that this exemption sends a contradictory message regarding the state’s commitment to reducing plastic waste and addressing environmental sustainability. There will be debates surrounding the impact of such a concession, as well as discussions about balancing the economic needs of food service businesses with broader environmental goals.