GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF NORTH CAROLINA

SESSION 1989

H	1 

HOUSE BILL 618

Short Title:  Degradable Food Packaging.	(Public)
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Sponsors: Representatives Redwine; and Colton.
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Referred to:  Basic Resources.
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March 15, 1989

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT TO PROHIBIT, AFTER JANUARY 1, 1996, THE SALE OR DISTRIBUTION OF POLYSTYRENE FOAM OR PLASTIC-COATED PAPER PRODUCT THAT IS USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH FOOD FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION UNLESS THE PRODUCT IS DEGRADABLE.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
Section 1.  G.S. 130A-290 is amended by adding a subdivision as follows:
"(1c)	‘Degradable' means is capable, after being discarded or disposed, of decomposing to components other than heavy metals or other toxic substances, due to exposure to bacteria, light, or the natural elements."
Sec. 2.  Article 9 of Chapter 130A of the General Statutes is amended by adding a subsection as follows:
"§ 130A-295.2. Degradable polystyrene foam and plastic-coated food packaging and containers required.
(a)	After January 1, 1996, no person shall sell, offer for sale, or distribute for sale in this State any polystyrene foam or plastic-coated paper product that is to be used in conjunction with food for human consumption unless the product is degradable within 24 months."
Sec. 3.  This act is effective upon ratification.