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S 3195

Anti-Cash Grab Act

119th Congress Introduced by Angela Alsobrooks and 30 co-sponsors

Bill S 3195 limits single-use utensils in New Jersey food businesses, promoting reusable options to reduce plastic waste and encouraging sustainable practices.

Introduced in Senate
14
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 3195

Summary of Bill S 3195

Bill Number: S 3195
Title: 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.
Status: Referred to Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee
Introduced: May 06, 2024
Classification: Bill
Subject: Food, Solid Waste

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 3195 aims to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastic utensils and condiment packaging by regulating their distribution in food service businesses across New Jersey. The bill seeks to encourage the use of reusable utensils and to minimize plastic waste generated by food service operations.

Key Provisions

  1. Restrictions on Single-Use Utensils and Condiments:

    • Food service businesses are prohibited from providing single-use plastic utensils and condiments unless specifically requested by the customer.
    • This applies to all forms of service, including dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, and delivery.

  2. Reusable Utensils Requirement:

    • Food service businesses with an on-site seating capacity of 50 or more must provide easy access to reusable, washable utensils for customers dining on the premises.
    • Customers are required to return these utensils for cleaning and reuse after their meal.

  3. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • Violating the provisions of this bill will result in civil penalties:
      • $1,000 for the first offense
      • $2,500 for the second offense
      • $5,000 for the third and subsequent offenses
    • Each day of violation constitutes a separate offense.

  4. Exemptions:

    • Businesses that exclusively provide eco-friendly alternatives to single-use utensils and condiments are exempt from these regulations.
    • Schools will be exempt for five years from the effective date of the bill.
    • Health care facilities are exempt during infectious outbreaks or outdoor recreational activities.
    • Food service businesses located in food courts will be exempt for two years.

Impact

This legislation will primarily affect food service businesses, including restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and similar establishments. It aims to promote sustainable practices and reduce plastic waste, thereby benefiting the environment. The bill also encourages consumers to be more mindful of their utensil and condiment usage.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on May 6, 2024, and has since been reported out of the Senate Environment and Energy Committee with amendments on October 10, 2024.
  • It is currently under consideration by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee.

Related Legislation

  • A 5157 (companion bill) is associated with S 3195, addressing similar issues regarding single-use utensils and condiments.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 3195, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impacts on food service operations and environmental sustainability in New Jersey.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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