HB1213 Summary

• Prohibits food providers from selling, using, providing, or offering polystyrene foam food service containers within Hawaii effective January 1, 2020.

• Bans polystyrene foam service containers at state facilities, state-authorized concessions, state-sponsored events, state-permitted events, and state programs.

• Exempts polystyrene foam containers used for raw or butchered meats, poultry, fish, or eggs (unless ready to eat); reusable coolers; and protective shipping foam.

• Establishes $1,000 civil penalty per violation enforced by the Department of Health, which must submit annual reports to the legislature on enforcement and exemptions granted.

• Allows emergency exemptions if the director determines an emergency exists requiring immediate preservation of life, health, property, safety, or essential public services.