Come January 1, several laws in Colorado have taken effect, with one significant change being the enforcement of House Bill 21-1162. This legislation introduces a statewide ban on the use of plastic bags for purchases at retail stores, excluding restaurants from this restriction. However, the law also extends its reach by prohibiting the use of Styrofoam products for restaurant take-out containers and ready-to-eat food.
Local restaurant owners, including Tamales by La Casita, anticipate the impact of this shift on their businesses and customers. Styrofoam containers, commonly used by many Colorado restaurants, will no longer be an option. Instead, businesses must transition to more environmentally friendly alternatives such as paper or biodegradable products.
Paula Sandoval, the owner of Tamales by La Casita, expresses her support for the state law, recognizing the importance of mitigating the impacts on climate change and the environment. However, she highlights the financial strain this change will place on businesses, citing the doubled cost of switching from Styrofoam to alternatives. Styrofoam containers, at approximately 13 cents each, contrast with paper or biodegradable products costing around 26 cents per container. Sandoval notes that the additional expense will likely be passed on to customers.
Customers like Joel Korn voice their understanding of the necessity to reduce waste, even if it means paying a bit more. Sandoval appeals to customers, urging them to be empathetic toward restaurants navigating these changes to survive. She emphasizes that price adjustments are driven by necessity rather than preference.
As restaurants, including Tamales by La Casita, exhaust their Styrofoam inventory, the transition to alternative products will become inevitable. The law permits the use of existing Styrofoam inventory purchased before January 1, 2024, allowing for a gradual shift. Violations, however, come with penalties, ranging from $500 for a second offense to up to $1,000 for a third offense.
House Bill 21-1162 also implemented a statewide bag fee as of January 1, 2023. Notably, restaurants are exempt from both the bag fee and the plastic bag ban. Advocates argue that single-use bags, crucial for food safety, should not incur fees, aligning with food code requirements to ensure safe consumption.