Vending

Rhode Island seeks to ban polystyrene items in foodservice

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June 2, 2023

Rhode Island lawmakers moved to ban to-go foam boxes and plastic cocktail stirrers Thursday, according to a report in The Providence Journal. The state senate passed the measure, which moves to the house and, if passed, will take effect Jan. 1, 2025.

The bill prohibits foodservice operations from preparing, selling or offering beverage and food items in a disposable container composed of polystyrene foam, in whole or in part.

Lawmakers passed a straw ban two years ago that has not yet been enforced.