Prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use plastic utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site.
Impact
If enacted, A5331 will amend existing laws regarding the distribution of single-use plastics by food service businesses. It specifically addresses consumer access to plastic utensils and condiments, establishing clear guidelines on when these items can be provided. The regulations are intended to promote more environmentally friendly practices by nudging both businesses and consumers toward opting for reusable alternatives. The provisions would likely affect a wide range of establishments, from restaurants to cafeterias and food trucks, by enforcing a standard protocol for their service operations.
Summary
Assembly Bill A5331 aims to regulate the use of single-use plastic utensils and condiments in food service businesses across New Jersey. The bill mandates that these establishments may only provide such items upon explicit request from customers. Additionally, food service businesses with seating capacities of 50 or more must offer reusable and washable utensils for dine-in customers, which must be returned for cleaning after use. By encouraging the reduction of plastic waste, the bill is aligned with environmental protection goals and aims to reduce litter and plastic pollution in the state.
Contention
Despite its environmental objectives, A5331 has sparked some debate among stakeholders. Proponents argue that the legislation is a necessary step toward reducing plastic waste, while opponents may cite potential logistical challenges for smaller businesses that rely on the convenience of single-use items. Furthermore, the bill imposes civil penalties for non-compliance, which some business owners may perceive as an undue burden, especially during a transitional phase towards implementing reusable systems. Therefore, balancing environmental goals and economic reality remains a critical point of contention.
Prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site.
Prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site.
Prohibits public food service establishments operating in the state from providing excess food service items including utensils, condiments, napkins and extra containers, to any customer except upon, and in accordance with, the express request of that customer.
Prohibits public food service establishments operating in the state from providing excess food service items including utensils, condiments, napkins and extra containers, to any customer except upon, and in accordance with, the express request of that customer.
An Act To Amend Title 16 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Reducing The Automatic Provision Of Single-use Eating Utensils, Condiment Packets, And Other Items.
Requires food service establishments to permit the use of reusable beverage and food containers provided by customers when requesting a beverage refill or requesting leftovers from a partially consumed meal to be packaged and post signs to inform customers that they are permitted to do so.
Prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site.
Prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site.
Prohibits public food service establishments operating in the state from providing excess food service items including utensils, condiments, napkins and extra containers, to any customer except upon, and in accordance with, the express request of that customer.