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Montana committee hears wide support and business concerns for 5‑year phase‑out of polystyrene foodware (HB 477)
Summary
Supporters told the House Natural Resources Committee HB 477 would reduce persistent litter and protect wildlife and public health by phasing out expanded polystyrene foodservice products over five years; opponents warned of costs, exemption administration by DEQ, and limits for small businesses. The committee took testimony and held the bill for a day for further work.
Representative Marilyn Marler introduced House Bill 477 on expanded polystyrene (commonly called Styrofoam), proposing a phased removal from most foodservice uses: in‑restaurant service prohibited in January 2028, to‑go containers prohibited in January 2029, and food‑packaging/shipping uses phased out by 2030. Marler said meat and egg containers would be exempted and the bill includes a DEQ process for narrow business exemptions.
The hearing drew a long line of proponents, including conservation and student groups, small businesses and composters. Ben Catton of the Montana Environmental Information Center said the material "doesn't biodegrade, is harmful to the environment, and creates a lot of…
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