Virginia legislators are taking steps to improve the environmental footprint of the Commonwealth, as a bill moves forward banning food vendors from the usage of plastic foam containers. House Bill 1902 has moved to the House during the General Assembly. On Friday the legislation passed in the Senate. House legislators have rejected a Senate amendment that would exempt non-profits, schools, and government entities from the definition of food vendor.

The Senate insisted on the amendment, however, and a conference committee has been assigned.

HB 1902 stipulates that larger vendors cannot utilize Styrofoam containers beyond July 1^st, 2023, and outlaws the usage by all food vendors July 1^st, 2025.  If a restaurant is not in compliance, there is the risk of a civil penalty up to $50 dollars per day for the violation. The penalty will go towards litter control, a recycling fund, or to the treasury of the identified community. A portion of all the funds gained from the fines will go towards educational campaigns to promote the smart usage of environmentally friendly behaviors in the restaurant setting.

The dangers of Styrofoam are well documented. When Styrofoam breaks down it creates tiny particles known as microplastics. Currently, Styrofoam and other plastics take around 30% of all landfill volume in the United States. The EPA has raised concern that the Styrofoam component styrene can seep into from those sites and into drinking water where minorities and lower income populations are most likely to be impacted.

Small businesses have expressed concern, as the Styrofoam containers are often a cost-effective solution. Striking a balance between the environment, ensuring the strong operations of Virginia businesses, and protecting the health of those that rely on take-away food options to remain healthy must be prioritized.