New Jersey Senate Bill S239

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24

Caption

Eliminates prohibition on paper bags, and allows packaging options, for certain grocery orders for three years; requires program for disposition of reusable bags; extends timeframe for use of certain bags by food banks and pantries.

Impact

The bill modifies existing statutes enacted under P.L.2020, c. 117, which initially banned single-use plastic and paper bags to promote environmental sustainability. By allowing grocery stores and delivery services to offer paper bags once again, the legislation presents a balanced approach between consumer convenience and environmental considerations. However, it maintains some restrictions by prohibiting these packaging options after the three-year period, enabling a potential transition back to more sustainable practices ultimately aiming towards a reduction in single-use plastics.

Summary

Senate Bill 239 is aimed at reforming packaging options for groceries provided by grocery stores and third-party delivery services in New Jersey. It eliminates the existing prohibition on single-use paper bags, thus allowing grocery stores and delivery services to offer packaging options such as paper bags with at least 40% post-consumer recycled content, cardboard boxes, or reusable bags for a fee. The bill will take effect immediately upon passing, with the provision that these packaging options will only be allowable for a period of three years before reverting back to previous restrictions.

Contention

During discussions surrounding SB 239, supporters argue that reinstating paper bags provides consumers with practical options for grocery transport while still allowing for a gradual shift towards more sustainable practices. Critics, however, express concerns about the environmental ramifications of increasing paper usage and the potential regression from efforts toward plastic waste reduction. The inclusion of requirements for stores and delivery services to create programs for the return and sanitation of reusable bags aims to mitigate some of these concerns by promoting reuse and recycling.