Plastic utensils for takeout orders could become a thing of the past — or at least severely restricted. Democratic state assembly member Dr. Herb Conaway, the bill’s sponsor, said the Garden State should get harmful plastics out of landfills and out of the environment, according to News 12 in New Jersey. While the state already has a strict plastic bag ban, the bill would prevent businesses from handing out single-use plastic utensils automatically to customers.
The bill “prohibits food service businesses from providing single-use plastic utensils and condiments to customers, except upon request, and requires certain food service businesses to provide reusable, washable utensils to customers eating on site,” a synopsis of the bill says on the New Jersey State legislature’s website. The bill was introduced last month, on March 23, 2023.
The bill would urge all food establishments to find eco-friendly alternatives, according to New Jersey Spotlight News. Violations would include a $1,000 fine for the first offense — and up to $5,000 for the third offense, the same outlet noted. Businesses with in-restaurant seating for 50 or more people would need to provide cutlery for dine-in customers, the bill says.