Florida Bill FL SB240 (26R) Protects Local Plastic Bag, Foam Ordinances
A new bill, FL SB240 (26R), has been filed by a Republican state senator to protect local ordinances regulating plastic bags and foam containers. This move comes as a response to last year's Senate attempt to prohibit local governments from tackling plastic and foam pollution in waterways. The bill's sponsor, State Sen. Ileana Garcia (R-Miami), aims to preserve existing local regulations while preempting further state-level control over auxiliary containers.
Garcia's bill has received support from some environmentalists. It seeks to maintain the authority of cities and counties to manage plastic bag and foam container waste within their jurisdictions. The bill also directs the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to develop a statewide marine debris reduction plan. Furthermore, it tasks the DEP with creating a uniform ordinance by October 1, 2027, to be used by local governments, ensuring consistency in waste management strategies across the United States.
Behind this legislation is Jim Boyd, the Republican Senator from Bradenton and Florida Senate Majority Leader. Designated as the next Senate president after the 2026 elections, Boyd has played a pivotal role in crafting this legislation to safeguard local ordinances. Despite his influence, the name of the current GOP chair of the specific Senate committee responsible for this law remains unavailable.
FL SB240 (26R) is set to protect local ordinances regulating plastic bags and foam containers, while also promoting a statewide approach to marine debris reduction. The bill, championed by Sen. Ileana Garcia and backed by Sen. Jim Boyd, seeks to balance local control with state-level coordination in waste management. If passed, it could significantly impact the United States' efforts to combat plastic pollution in its waterways.
%20Protects%20Local%20Plastic%20Bag%2C%20Foam%20Ordinances){kind=link}