California legislators consider bills to combat single-use plastics

Lawmakers in California are introducing about a dozen different bills aimed at combatting plastic pollution.

One of those bills would prohibit the use of single-use plastic. The Plastic Pollution Producer Responsibility Act (SB 54) is being monitored by California Automatic Vending Council and NAMA.

The bill would require producers to reduce waste by “right-sizing” their packages and changing to reusable containers where possible. It also requires that all disposable packaging and foodservice ware be truly recyclable or compostable by 2032.

Also of interest in California is AB 1276, which would expand the state’s plastic-straws-upon-request law to include other single-use food accessories like plastic forks, spoons and knives. It would also mandate reusable dining utensils for onsite dining at certain restaurants.

Visit NAMA's Action Center to follow federal and state legislation and regulations the association is tracking on behalf of the convenience services industry.