New Jersey Enforces Skip the Stuff Law, Requiring Requests for Single-Use Takeout Items
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 1
New Jersey Enforces Skip the Stuff Law, Requiring Requests for Single-Use Takeout Items
3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Aug 1
Summary
Saturday marked the start of New Jersey’s “Skip the Stuff” law, ending automatic inclusion of plastic utensils, napkins and condiments with takeout and mobile orders unless customers ask for them.
Restaurants and state officials say the change is meant to cut landfill waste and litter, while the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association says it could also lower business costs over time.
Mobile-order customers now must check a box to get those items, and some restaurant workers expect early confusion from diners who do not yet know the rule has changed.
Customer reaction was split, with some welcoming less waste from unused utensils and others saying they may forget to ask for forks or condiments when eating on the go.
Warnings will come first for businesses that fail to comply, with violations and fines possible afterward.