HB375 Alabama 2014 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Alan Boothe

Republican

Co-Sponsor

Barry Moore

Session

Regular Session 2014

Title

Recycling, biodegradable plastic containers to meet standards for compostable products and be clearly labeled to prevent contamination of recyclable plastic containers

Summary

HB375 would require biodegradable plastic containers to meet compostable-product standards and be clearly labeled to prevent contamination of recyclable plastic containers.

What This Bill Does

It prohibits selling or distributing rigid plastic containers labeled with terms like 'degradable', 'biodegradable', or 'compostable' unless they meet specified requirements. Those containers must comply with the FTC's Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims and must carry a 'Not Recyclable, Do Not Recycle' label that uses the same print style as the biodegradation claim. The goal is to reduce confusion and contamination in recycling streams. The law becomes effective on July 1, 2015.

Who It Affects

• Manufacturers, distributors, and sellers of rigid plastic containers must ensure labeling and standards compliance.
• Retailers and businesses that market and sell these containers must verify conformity to the labeling rules.
• Recycling programs and facilities may benefit from reduced contamination in recyclable plastics due to clearer labeling.

Key Provisions

• No person shall distribute, sell, or offer for sale any rigid plastic container labeled 'degradable', 'biodegradable', 'compostable', or similar terms unless it meets FTC Guidelines for environmental marketing claims and includes a 'Not Recyclable, Do Not Recycle' label in the same color, contrast, font, and size as the label indicating biodegradability.
• The act takes effect on July 1, 2015.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Recycling