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SB 178

AN ACT TO AMEND TITLE 16 OF THE DELAWARE CODE RELATING TO THE USE OF POLYSTYRENE FOAM FOOD SERVICE PACKAGING IN LEVEL IV AND LEVEL V DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTION FACILITIES.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 1 co-sponsor

Delaware bans polystyrene foam food service packaging in maximum-security prisons to reduce waste and improve facility operations.

Signed by Governor
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 178

Legislative bill overview

SB 178 prohibits the use of polystyrene foam (Styrofoam) food service packaging in Delaware's Level IV and Level V Department of Correction facilities. The bill amends Title 16 of Delaware Code to establish this restriction on food containers used in higher-security correctional institutions.

Why is this important

Polystyrene foam poses environmental and safety concerns in correctional settings, where waste management is centralized and disposal costs are borne by the state. The restriction aligns Delaware's corrections system with broader environmental sustainability goals while potentially reducing long-term waste management expenses and addressing inmate safety concerns related to foam packaging materials.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Switching to alternative food service packaging materials may increase operational expenses for the DOC, though long-term savings through reduced waste management could offset initial costs
  • Scope limitations: The bill only applies to Level IV and V facilities (higher security), leaving lower-security facilities exempt, which may create inconsistent environmental practices across the corrections system
  • Implementation feasibility: Food service vendors and contracted providers may need time to source and transition to compliant packaging alternatives, potentially causing supply chain disruptions

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

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