An Act to restrict the use of polystyrene

This bill prohibits food and retail establishments in Massachusetts from using polystyrene containers and food service ware starting August 1, 2024. It defines "disposable food containers" to include single-use items like plates, cups, and utensils used for serving or packaging food and beverages. Retailers will be banned from selling these polystyrene products to customers, while food establishments cannot dispense food in them. The law allows for a one-year deferment if a business can prove that using polystyrene is the only option and that switching would cause significant economic hardship. Violations of the ban could result in fines of up to $1,000 per incident, though the health department has the authority to grant extensions based on specific circumstances.