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Bill

HB 1087

SCH CD-SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BAN

104th Regular Session Introduced by Terra Costa Howard and 1 co-sponsor

Illinois school plastic ban requires schools to replace single-use plastics with reusable or compostable alternatives, reducing waste but creating infrastructure and cost challenges.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1087

Legislative bill overview

HB 1087 proposes to ban single-use plastic products in Illinois schools, requiring educational institutions to transition to reusable or compostable alternatives. The bill aims to reduce plastic waste generated in school cafeterias, classrooms, and other facilities while promoting environmental awareness among students.

Why is this important

Schools generate substantial amounts of single-use plastic waste daily through lunch service, which ends up in landfills or ecosystems. This legislation could significantly reduce institutional plastic consumption, create a model for waste reduction, and teach students sustainable practices through direct experience rather than curriculum alone.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: Schools must purchase reusable dishware, industrial composting infrastructure, or certified compostable products, creating upfront capital expenses and ongoing operational costs that may strain already-tight budgets
  • Composting infrastructure gaps: Many Illinois regions lack adequate industrial composting facilities to handle compostable alternatives, potentially making "compostable" products impractical and creating contamination in regular waste streams
  • Operational challenges: Reusable products require washing/sanitization systems, storage space, and labor; schools with limited facilities or already-understaffed cafeterias may face significant disruption and increased staffing needs

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

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