Maryland Senate Advances Measure Banning Styrofoam Products

Maryland’s State Senate has voted in favor of a measure that would ban the use of styrofoam products in the food service industry.

The bill, which would take effect on July 1, 2020 would fine violators unto 250 dollars per violation after receiving a written warning. A similar measure is currently pending in the state Senate.

A Goucher College poll found a majority of Marylanders, more than 6 in 10, support the measure to ban styrofoam. A final vote is set for Monday, although it is unclear if Governor Larry Hogan would sign the legislation into law. Democrats hold a supermajority in both the House and Senate, and could override any veto from the Governor.

If passed, Maryland would become the first state in the nation to impose a statewide ban of styrofoam.