NJ diners fume over new 'Skip the Stuff' law affecting take-out orders
New York Post • • business
Key Points:
- New Jersey's "Skip the Stuff" law, effective August 1, requires takeout customers to request single-use plastic items like utensils, straws, and condiment packets, aiming to reduce plastic waste and environmental impact.
- The law extends to online food ordering platforms and dine-in restaurants with seating for 10 or more, which must provide washable utensils and condiments in reusable containers instead of packets.
- Exemptions include K-12 schools, state correctional and healthcare facilities, and food court restaurants until 2028; violations may lead to fines after a warning.
- Social media reactions have been mixed, with many criticizing the law as political virtue signaling or an overreach, while others support it for reducing unnecessary plastic waste.
- The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection encourages customers to request only what they need to help minimize single-use plastic pollution.
