NC H927

Prohibits the sale and use of expanded polystyrene food service products in North Carolina effective July 1, 2021, including food containers, plates, beverage cups, meat and vegetable trays, and egg cartons.

Exempts prepackaged food already in polystyrene containers before receipt by food service businesses, food packaged outside the state before receipt, packaging for raw meat/fish/poultry/seafood, and nonfoam polystyrene products.

Applies to food service businesses (restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, movie theaters, cafeterias) and schools (public, nonpublic, community colleges, and universities).

Authorizes the Department to grant waivers for up to one year if compliance presents undue hardship or practical difficulties, and requires a public education and outreach campaign before implementation.

Establishes enforcement penalties of a warning for first violation, up to $200 for second violation or first violation not corrected within 90 days, and up to $500 for subsequent violations; does not preempt stricter local ordinances.