CA AB2138

Enacts the Plastic Ocean Pollution Reduction, Recycling, and Composting Act to regulate disposable food service packaging and single-use carryout bags in California

Prohibits food providers from distributing disposable food service packaging or single-use carryout bags after July 1, 2011, unless they meet criteria for either compostable packaging (ASTM D6400 standard accepted in residential composting programs serving 75% of households) or recyclable packaging (accepted in residential recycling programs serving 75% of households)

Requires food providers to accept back for composting or recycling any compostable or recyclable packaging they distribute with in-store consumption food

Increases requirements on and after July 1, 2013, when food providers can only distribute packaging or bags if the department determines they are recovered for composting or recycling at a rate of 25 percent or more

Applies to establishments providing prepared food including restaurants, grocery stores, supermarkets, delicatessens, catering trucks, and similar food service operations