New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has been a topic of conversation for his progressive policies, particularly those aimed at environmental conservation and public health. In an effort to bring New Jersey into a greener and more sustainable future, Murphy has imposed a variety of bans since taking office. Below are some of the most significant bans that have shaped his tenure.
Plastic Bags
One of Murphy’s most talked-about bans has been on single-use plastic bags. This legislation aims to decrease plastic waste, which contributes to environmental pollution and harms marine life. The ban came into effect on May 4, 2022, making New Jersey one of the first states on the East Coast to enact such a law. Retailers are encouraged to use paper bags or encourage customers to bring reusable bags.
Plastic Straws
In alignment with the plastic bag ban, plastic straws have also been banned in restaurants and cafes. Establishments are required to offer alternatives, such as paper straws or reusable stainless-steel straws, to patrons. This measure, too, aims to reduce plastic waste and its adverse effects on the environment.
Gas-Powered Cars
In a bold move, Governor Murphy also proposed phasing out gas-powered cars by 2035. While the ban on the sale of new gas cars won’t go into effect until then, the state government has launched various initiatives to encourage people to opt for electric vehicles. These initiatives include tax incentives and grants for installing electric vehicle charging stations.
Menthol Cigarettes
For public health reasons, Murphy has also banned the sale of menthol cigarettes. This decision was influenced by data indicating a strong correlation between menthol cigarettes and higher addiction rates. The ban seeks to mitigate the public health impacts of smoking, particularly among youth and minority communities who have been disproportionately affected.
Polystyrene Containers
Another environmental initiative has been the ban on polystyrene food containers, commonly known as Styrofoam containers. Effective from January 1, 2022, restaurants and food service businesses had to switch to biodegradable or compostable alternatives. This move was guided by the fact that polystyrene takes hundreds of years to break down, posing a long-term environmental risk.
Governor Phil Murphy’s bans collectively reflect an agenda centered on sustainability and public health. While these bans have generated some controversy, they also indicate a shift towards more responsible governance and consumer behavior. As New Jersey adapts to these changes, it will be interesting to observe the long-term impacts of these policies.