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Florida Bill Seeks Uniform Local Rules for Straw and Stirrer Materials

The proposal responds to PFAS concerns by requiring cities to permit certified renewable, compostable or marine‑biodegradable alternatives.

Overview

  • Sen. Jennifer Bradley filed SB 958 for the 2026 Regular Session beginning Jan. 13.
  • Local rules would have to permit straws and stirrers that are renewable, home compostable certified, industrial compostable certified, or marine biodegradable.
  • Technical thresholds include water decomposition within one year for marine‑biodegradable products and either USDA BioPreferred 80% biobased content or TÜV Austria OK biobased 4‑star for renewables.
  • Bradley says the bill does not preempt local ordinances, asserting it updates them to ensure uniformity by including certified alternatives.
  • The measure cites research finding PFAS in many paper straws; no House companion has been filed as of publication, and several Florida cities still restrict single‑use plastic straws.