Banning the use of single-use Styrofoam food containers in New York State.

GOVERNOR CUOMO UNVEILS 5TH PROPOSAL OF 2020 STATE OF THE STATE: BANNING THE USE OF SINGLE-USE STYROFOAM FOOD CONTAINERS IN NEW YORK STATE

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo is proposing a new bill on prohibiting the distribution and use of expanded polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, single-use food containers. The proposal also bans the sale of expanded polystyrene packaging materials known as packing peanuts. This would go into effect by January 1, 2022.

The new legislation will:

• Ban the distribution and use of expanded polystyrene foam containers used for prepared foods or beverages served by food service establishments, including restaurants, caterers, food trucks, retail food stores, delis and grocery stores.

• Ban the sale of polystyrene loose fill packaging, commonly known as packing peanuts.

• Authorize the State Department of Environmental Conservation to take additional action to limit or ban other packaging material upon a finding of environmental impact.

The ban exempts prepackaged food sealed prior to receipt at a restaurant or food service establishment, as well as packaging for uncooked or raw meat, fish or eggs. Violators will be penalized with a fine starting at $250. Second, third and fourth violations will be fined $500, $1,000 and $2,000 respectively.