Virginia’s gas tax is set to increase on July 1, and that isn’t the only new law that will take effect this summer.
One of the legal changes is the implementation of a full ban on expanded polystyrene food containers. The ban applies to any food vendor that sells takeaway food, including restaurants, grocery stores, and catering trucks. Schools will also be prevented from using the containers, which are often called Styrofoam.
Last year, a similar ban was applied to large chains and food vendors that have more than 20 locations in the state. The latest update applies the same policies to all vendors. “EPS isn’t the best choice for people or the environment,” the state’s Department of Environmental Quality wrote. “It’s time to learn about and plan for alternatives.”