Plastic Straw Upon-Request Rule in New Jersey

The Get Past Plastic Act includes an upon-request provision for single-use plastic straws. Effective November 4, 2021, food service businesses may not automatically provide plastic straws but must furnish them only when a customer specifically requests one. The rule supports accessibility for individuals with disabilities who require straws while reducing default distribution. Self-serve dispensers must be removed from public areas. Drive-through and delivery operations must also comply by not including straws unless requested. Enforcement runs through DEP and local code officials with the same penalty schedule as bags and foam.

Initial violations result in a written warning, escalating to $1,000 for second offense and up to $5,000 per day for third and subsequent violations under DEP enforcement.