New Jersey Bill Could Ban Chewing Gum, Sparking Outrage
Lawmakers propose the Protecting Against Microplastics Act, targeting products with intentionally added microplastics, including some chewing gums.
A proposed bill in New Jersey aims to ban products containing intentionally added microplastics, a measure that could eventually lead to a ban on some chewing gums and has drawn sharp criticism. The "Protecting Against Microplastics Act," introduced in September by Democratic Assemblywomen Shama Haider and Margi Donlon, targets a range of items including certain chewing gums, tea bags, plastic cutlery and containers, cleaning products, and cosmetics.
The legislation would first require companies to label products with "intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles" for two years. Following this period, any non-compliant goods would be prohibited from sale in New Jersey. The bill states, "Beginning three years after the effective date of this act, no person shall sell, offer for sale, or distribute for sale in the State any cleaning, cosmetic, or potentially ingestible products, if those products contain intentionally added microplastics."
The proposed act carries a significant financial allocation. The bill earmarks $2.5 million for the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to implement a source reduction program, conduct microplastics research, and monitor environmental samples for microplastics. An additional $500,000 would be allocated to the Department of Law and Public Safety for enforcing label disclosures and the eventual ban.
News of the proposal, shared on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook by accounts such as "Teacher in NJ," has generated a strong negative reaction. Many commenters expressed dismay, particularly given New Jersey's recent enactment of the "Skip the Stuff" law, which prevents restaurants from automatically providing plastic utensils and condiment packets with take-out orders.
Critics have voiced concerns that the government should prioritize other issues, with one commenter suggesting, "Can they please spend time on s–t that will actually make a difference." Other suggestions included focusing on healthcare systems, taxes, and grocery costs. Some questioned why the act did not target other potentially harmful products like processed or genetically modified foods, or coffee pods.
The lawmakers behind the bill, Shama Haider and Margi Donlon, along with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill, have faced online criticism. Some users expressed frustration with the focus on microplastics while questioning the effectiveness of current government priorities.