Jersey City food service businesses cannot automatically provide single-use plastic straws to customers; straws must be supplied only when specifically requested under New Jersey statewide rules effective November 2021.
New Jersey Public Law 2020 c. 117 implements an opt-in rule for single-use plastic straws across Jersey City restaurants, cafes, food trucks, and bars. Servers may not place straws on tables, in drinks, or in to-go orders unless the customer explicitly asks. Self-service straw stations are also prohibited. Compostable, paper, or reusable straws may be used freely, though many Jersey City establishments have switched to paper to reduce confusion. The rule preserves accessibility for diners with disabilities who can always request a plastic straw without question or proof.
Warnings issued for first offense; up to $1,000 for second; up to $5,000 per day for repeat violations under New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection oversight.
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See how Jersey City's plastic straw rules rules stack up against other locations.
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