Vending

Massachusetts pulls single-use plastic bottles from state agencies

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September 25, 2023

Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey signed an executive order that bans all state agencies from purchasing single-use plastic bottles, the first such state law in the nation, according to the National Automatic Merchandising Association weekly legislative roundup.

The law also requires agencies to reduce the sale of single-use plastic bottles on all state property and requires agencies to limit the purchase, use or sale of single-use plastic bottles to certain defined circumstances. The order takes effect immediately, and agencies have until Dec. 31 to show proof of compliance.

The law does not apply when it conflicts with existing contract requirements or labor agreements or agreements solicited before this past weekend.

NAMA, the Massachusetts Vending Association and the New England Refreshment Services Association have opposed the law and will continue engaging with partners in response to the executive order.