May 23, 2019

Kennedy Hails Passage of Ban on Single-Use Styrofoam

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HARTFORD- State Rep. Kathy Kennedy (R-119) supported a bipartisan proposal that prohibits a restaurant or caterer from providing or distributing to consumers single use containers made of expanded polystyrene beginning July 1, 2021.

“This bill seeks to address environmental and health concerns by prohibiting the use of polystyrene containers by restaurants and other food establishments, said Rep. Kennedy, who represents the some of the Milford coast. Right now polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam, has a negative impact on the environment and the Long Island Sound coastline.”

According to the legislation, HB-5386 An Act Requiring the Elimination of Single-Use Styrofoam Containers, an owner or operator who violates the prohibition is subject to a fine of $250 for a first violation, $500 for a second violation, and $1,000 for any subsequent violation. A local health department or district or the departments of Consumer Protection (DCP), Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), or Public Health (DPH) may enforce the bill’s prohibition.

If a local health department or district enforces it, half of the fine imposed must be remitted to the municipality where the violation occurred.

The bill, which passed by a vote of 121-to-23, now moves to the State Senate for debate and a vote.

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