Protecting Communities from Plastics: Moratorium, Safety Zones, and Single-Use Reduction.
This Act imposes a temporary halt on new permits for plastic production and processing facilities to safeguard nearby communities from pollution. It mandates significantly stricter emission standards for existing factories, sets federal targets for reducing single-use plastics, and promotes refillable systems, directly impacting food and beverage packaging. Crucially, it requires new projects to undergo environmental justice assessments to ensure they do not harm the health of local residents.
Key points
Halt on New Plastic Plants: A temporary moratorium is placed on new permits for petrochemical and chemical recycling facilities, and new construction is banned within 5 miles of community buildings like schools and residences.
Stricter Pollution Controls: Existing facilities must meet significantly tougher clean air and water standards, including zero discharge limits for plastic pellets, and must provide financial assurance for safe closure and emergency response.
Single-Use Plastic Reduction: Federal targets are established to reduce single-use plastic packaging (minimum 25% by 2034) and increase the use of refillable/reusable systems (minimum 30% by 2034).
Health and Toxicity Research: Studies are mandated on microplastics in food and the human body, and toxic plastic components (like styrene and PVC) will face priority regulatory review.
Expired
Citizen Poll