SB284 Alabama 2014 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Jimmy Holley
Republican
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: SB284 would require biodegradable plastic containers to meet compostable standards and carry a clear 'Not Recyclable, Do Not Recycle' label to prevent recycling contamination, with an effective date in 2015.
What This Bill Does
It prohibits distributing or selling rigid plastic containers labeled as degradable, biodegradable, compostable, or implying biodegradation unless they meet specified standards. It requires compliance with the Federal Trade Commission's environmental marketing claims guidance. It also requires the label 'Not Recyclable, Do Not Recycle' to be printed in the same style as the biodegradation claim. The act becomes effective July 1, 2015.

Who It Affects
Manufacturers and distributors of rigid plastic containers: must ensure labeling and claims meet requirements to sell in Alabama.
Retailers and sellers of plastic containers: must comply with labeling rules and avoid offering non-compliant products for sale.
Recycling programs and facilities: will benefit from reduced contamination and must apply the new labeling to help with recycling decisions.

Key Provisions
Prohibits distribution, sale, or offering for sale any rigid plastic container labeled 'degradable,' 'biodegradable,' 'compostable,' or implying biodegradation, unless it meets the specified standards.
Requires compliance with the FTC's Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims (16 CFR Part 260).
Requires the container to include the label 'Not Recyclable, Do Not Recycle' in the same print style as the biodegradation label.
Effective date: 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