TRENTON, N.J. — A New Jersey Republican lawmaker has introduced legislation to repeal the state’s ban on single-use plastic bags, straws, and Styrofoam containers, arguing the 2020 law has led to increased plastic waste and environmental harm.
Assemblyman John Azzariti Jr. (R-Bergen) announced the bill following a recent executive order by former President Donald Trump to reinstate plastic straws at the federal level. Citing studies on plastic consumption, Azzariti contends that the ban has not achieved its intended environmental goals.
“New Jersey implemented the most restrictive ban on single-use plastics, Styrofoam and paper carryout bags to much left-wing fanfare, but the unintended consequences of the law are starting to negate any environmental benefits,” Azzariti said.
A study by the Freedonia Group found plastic consumption in New Jersey nearly tripled after the ban, as reusable bags—made with significantly more plastic—were discarded at high rates. Another study by Environmental and Resource Economics found that plastic bag restrictions led to increased purchases of plastic garbage bags, with over 120 pounds more plastic sold per store per month.
In addition to plastic bag concerns, Azzariti pointed to a 2023 study by Belgian researchers that found paper and bamboo straws contained more PFAS—so-called “forever chemicals”—than plastic straws, with potential health risks. Even environmental groups have acknowledged finding toxic dyes and glues in paper straws during testing.
“My legislation isn’t only about being inconvenienced or disliking paper straws, although I think most people would generally agree with those two sentiments, it’s about looking at the broader impact of heavy-handed government mandates,” Azzariti said.
Azzariti’s bill (A5338) would overturn the state law that phased out single-use plastics. He argues that a more effective approach would focus on reducing pollution, encouraging recycling, and addressing environmental issues without imposing bans.
