Medford, OR – The Oregon Senate has passed a bill aimed at expanding the state’s efforts to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastics. Senate Bill 551, which now heads to the Oregon House for a vote, would implement new restrictions on plastic utensils, condiment packages, and small personal health or beauty product containers.
Under the proposed legislation, starting in 2026, customers at food service establishments will need to request plastic utensils and condiment packages, rather than being automatically provided with them. Additionally, the bill mandates that lodging establishments, starting in 2028, could only offer small plastic health and beauty product containers, such as shampoo and soap, upon customer request.
The bill builds on the state’s ongoing efforts to limit plastic waste. In 2019, Oregon passed a law requiring that convenience stores and food and beverage providers offer plastic straws only upon request. SB 551 expands on that by targeting additional single-use plastic items commonly found in food service and hospitality industries.
Ashland State Representative Pam Marsh, who is currently researching the bill ahead of its vote in the House, expressed her support for the legislation. “There are changes we can easily make in our lives to become more aware of how present plastic is and to change some of the patterns that lead to more use of throwaway plastic items,” she said. “These items often end up in landfills, and many times they find their way into delicate habitats.”
Advocates for the bill argue that reducing single-use plastic waste is crucial for environmental conservation, as plastics contribute to pollution in landfills and oceans. They hope the legislation will help shift consumer behavior, encouraging people to reduce their reliance on disposable plastic items and opt for more sustainable alternatives.
If passed, SB 551 will further solidify Oregon’s role as a leader in the movement to reduce plastic pollution and promote environmental sustainability. As the bill moves to the House, its supporters remain hopeful that it will continue to gain traction and bring about positive change for Oregon’s ecosystems.