New Jersey Assembly Bill A5592

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/8/23
• Refer: 6/8/23

Caption

Eliminates prohibition on provision of single-use paper bags by grocery stores for delivery orders; requires grocery stores and third party grocery delivery services to establish program for reuse of reusable bags used for delivery orders.

Impact

The bill addresses ongoing environmental concerns regarding plastic pollution and resource usage. Previously, regulations aimed at reducing single-use plastics contributed to significant changes in consumer behavior and grocery store operations. By allowing single-use paper bags for deliveries, supporters argue that it can improve service and maintain a competitive edge for grocery stores adapting to consumer preferences. However, this raises questions about the environmental cost of paper bag production compared to plastics, which has been a contentious issue in legislative discussions.

Summary

Assembly Bill A5592, introduced on June 8, 2023, seeks to amend earlier legislation prohibiting the provision of single-use paper carryout bags by grocery stores. This bill now allows grocery stores to provide or sell single-use paper bags specifically for delivery orders. Additionally, it mandates that grocery stores and third-party delivery services establish programs for the return, sanitation, and reuse of reusable bags used for deliveries. The main rationale behind this change is to enhance customer convenience while balancing the environmental implications associated with plastic bag usage.

Contention

Debate around A5592 may revolve around the environmental implications of allowing single-use paper bags. Critics point out that while the bill facilitates consumer convenience, it could undermine efforts to reduce overall plastic and paper waste, given that single-use paper bags may also require significant resources to produce and contribute to emissions. Furthermore, there is concern that this legislation could detract from initiatives aiming for sustainability, especially with New Jersey's commitment to minimizing plastic waste and pollution in oceans and waterways.