Food service businesses in Anne Arundel County will soon be banned from using and selling polystyrene containers.
On Tuesday evening the Anne Arundel County Council voted four to three to pass Bill 5-19.
The bill, introduced by District 6 Councilwoman Lisa Rodvien requires food service businesses within the County to stop using and selling polystyrene containers within one year after the bill is signed into law. After the one year, violators could be subjected to civil fines.
Food and drink takeout trays are typically made of polystyrene, including those commonly used in schools.
Last year, Baltimore City Public Schools removed polystyrene items from their cafeterias.
Polystyrene containers have long been part of environmental debate. The council passed the same legislation last year, only to be vetoed by then Republican County Executive, Steve Schuh.
In November, Democrat Steuart Pittman was elected Anne Arundel County Executive.
