CO HB1162

Effective January 1, 2022, retail food establishments are prohibited from distributing expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam) products as containers for ready-to-eat food in Colorado.

Expanded polystyrene is defined as blown polystyrene and other expanded or extruded foam made from thermoplastic petrochemical materials using styrene monomer.

Retail food establishments that purchased expanded polystyrene products before January 1, 2022 may distribute remaining inventory until depleted, with documentation available upon department request.

The executive director of the Department of Public Health and Environment may investigate violations upon their own motion or complaint by any person and may request the attorney general seek injunctive relief against violating establishments.

The bill is subject to a referendum petition during a 90-day period after final adjournment of the general assembly and may require voter approval at the November 2020 general election.