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SB 1194

PLASTIC DISPOSABLE FOODWARE

104th Regular Session Introduced by Mary Edly-Allen and 1 co-sponsor

Requires restaurants to provide single‑use plastic foodware only on request, with opt‑in options across ordering platforms and signage to reduce dine‑in plastic waste.

Added as Co-Sponsor Sen. Sara Feigenholtz
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1194

Below is a concise, objective summary of SB 1194 (Single‑use plastic disposable foodware), as introduced for Illinois (adds 410 ILCS 620/16.10).

Purpose

To reduce single‑use plastic waste from restaurants by limiting automatic distribution of single‑use plastic disposable foodware for dine‑in service, requiring on‑request distribution, encouraging reusable alternatives, and setting modest penalties for noncompliance.

Key provisions

  • On‑request dine‑in distribution: Full‑service and quick‑service restaurants may not provide single‑use plastic disposable foodware for dine‑in customers unless the customer requests it. Plastic drinking straws must be provided only if specifically requested.
  • No plastic packaging for requested items: When single‑use plastic disposable foodware is provided upon request, it may not be packaged in plastic.
  • Ordering platform opt‑out/opt‑in option: Food dispensing establishments and takeout/delivery services must offer customers an affirmative option — separate from the core order — to request disposable foodware across all ordering and point‑of‑sale platforms (internet, apps, phone, in person).
  • Condiment dispensers: Restaurants that offer condiments may use dispensers instead of prepackaged disposable condiment packets.
  • Signage: Full‑service and quick‑service restaurants must post a sign informing customers that single‑use plastic disposable foodware is available upon request or at a self‑serve station. A separate provision allows restaurants to make single‑use plastic straws available via dispensers or other means if a sign encourages reducing single‑use plastics.
  • Penalty: After a first notice of violation, a civil penalty of $25 per day for each day of continued violation, payable to the Department of Public Health.
  • Effective date: January 1, 2026.

Key definitions (select)

  • “Disposable foodware”: single‑use containers, bowls, plates, trays, cups, lids, utensils, napkins and similar one‑time use items (excludes items composed entirely of aluminum).
  • “Full‑service restaurant”: establishment where customers are seated and served at tables (detailed criteria included).
  • “Quick‑service restaurant”: establishment with minimal table service where food is ordered and picked up.
  • “Compostable material”: breaks down into organic matter within 180 days in compost conditions.

Who is affected

  • Directly: full‑service and quick‑service restaurants operating in Illinois, food dispensing establishments, takeout and third‑party delivery services.
  • Indirectly: restaurant customers, suppliers of disposable foodware, and local waste/composting systems.
  • Enforcement and administration: Illinois Department of Public Health.

Potential impacts and implementation notes

  • Reduces routine distribution of single‑use plastics for dine‑in service, likely lowering plastic waste and demand for single‑use items.
  • Restaurants must update point‑of‑sale systems and training to provide separate opt‑in choices and to display required signage.
  • Small penalty amount ($25/day) provides administrative enforceability but modest financial exposure.
  • Excludes aluminum items and permits dispenser‑based condiment systems and straw access when requested.

This summary addresses the Illinois SB 1194 text (410 ILCS 620/16.10 new) as provided.

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

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