HI SB1109

Prohibits food vendors in Hawaii from serving or packaging prepared food in polystyrene foam containers beginning January 1, 2018, unless a county has established a recycling program capable of recycling at least 60% of polystyrene foam containers used annually or the vendor receives an exemption.

Defines "expanded polystyrene foam" as blown polystyrene and expanded/extruded foams made from styrene monomer, and "food vendor" as any person offering food or beverages for sale within the State.

Authorizes the Department of Health to grant one-year exemptions for vendors experiencing undue hardship with no acceptable alternatives to polystyrene foam use.

Establishes enforcement penalties: first violation results in written notice; second violation incurs a $200 fine; third and subsequent violations incur a $500 fine each.

Appropriates funds to the Department of Health for fiscal years 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 for public education and enforcement, with the act taking effect July 1, 2020.