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Bill

SB 779

Relating to: prohibiting food and beverages from being served in foam polystyrene packaging and providing a penalty. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tim Carpenter and 7 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill prohibits serving food and beverages in foam polystyrene packaging, establishing environmental protections but requiring businesses to adopt costlier alternative containers.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 779

Legislative bill overview

SB 779 would prohibit food and beverage businesses in Wisconsin from using foam polystyrene (Styrofoam) packaging and establishes penalties for violations. The bill applies to restaurants, food vendors, and any establishment serving food or drinks in such containers.

Why is this important

Foam polystyrene packaging takes hundreds of years to decompose and fragments into microplastics that contaminate waterways and ecosystems. Wisconsin's waterways—including the Great Lakes—are particularly vulnerable to this pollution, making packaging restrictions a significant environmental policy issue for the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Small restaurants and food vendors may face significant expenses replacing existing equipment, stock, and supply chains with compliant alternatives, with enforcement falling disproportionately on smaller operations
  • Alternative material feasibility and cost: Compliant packaging options (compostable, recyclable, or reusable containers) are often more expensive and may not be readily available in all Wisconsin markets, potentially raising consumer food prices
  • Enforcement mechanism unclear: The bill's penalty structure and enforcement authority are not detailed in available information, raising questions about how compliance will be monitored and what penalties apply

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

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