Rhode Island House Bill H7215

Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/18/24
• Refer: 1/18/24

Caption

Mandates that food service establishments only provide single-use foodware accessories and standard condiments to a customer upon request.

Impact

If enacted, H7215 will amend existing regulations governing food service practices regarding single-use foodware accessories in the state. The new law will take effect on January 1, 2025, and aims to streamline practices within food establishments while addressing public demand for environmentally responsible policies. Notably, the bill allows for some exceptions, including provisions for correctional facilities, healthcare, and residential care facilities.

Summary

House Bill H7215, introduced in January 2024, addresses environmental concerns related to single-use plastics by mandating that food service establishments only provide single-use foodware accessories, including straws and condiments, upon customer request. The bill aims to reduce waste produced by single-use items by not allowing restaurants to offer these items unless explicitly asked by consumers. This legislative effort aligns with a growing movement towards environmental sustainability and reducing plastic waste.

Contention

While H7215 is supported by environmental advocates who argue that it promotes sustainable practices and reduces unnecessary plastic waste, some may see it as an inconvenience for consumers who prefer the automatic inclusion of straws and condiments with their food orders. There could be pushback from sectors of the food service industry that worry about the operational implications, such as decreasing customer satisfaction or complicating service delivery without these commonly provided items.