Wiki Commons Image
Sacramento, CA — If you want a plastic straw at a restaurant in California, you will soon have to specifically request one.
Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation yesterday that prohibits restaurants from handing out the straws unless you ask for one. After signing the bill the Governor stated, “It is a very small step to make a customer who wants a plastic straw ask for it.” He also argued that plastics are “choking our planet.”
The legislation was passed on partisan lines as Democrats were overwhelmingly in favor and Republicans argued that it is government overreach. Restaurants will still be able to pass out paper straws regardless if a request is made. The fine for businesses in violation is $25 per day after two warnings. The law takes effect on January 1st. The law applies to full service restaurants that have wait staff and does not apply to fast food restaurants.
Written by BJ Hansen.
Sign up for our Breaking News Alerts and the myMotherLode.com Daily Newsletters by clicking here. Report breaking news, traffic or weather to our News Hotline (209) 532-6397. Send Mother Lode News Story photos to news@clarkebroadcasting.com.
Contact Your Local Representatives; US Congressional Rep. 5th District Tom McClintock, US Senator Alex Padilla, 8th State Assembly District Jim Patterson or, in some parts of Calaveras, 9th State Assembly District Heath Flora and 4th District State Senator Marie Alvarado Gil in our Community Guide Government Section here. For the complete coverage of California State News on myMotherLode.com visit our State News Page here.