REHOBOTH BEACH, Del. — Delaware lawmakers are moving forward with a bill that would stop restaurants from automatically including single-use items such as plastic utensils, napkins, straws, and condiment packets in takeout orders unless customers specifically request them. House Bill 111, sponsored by Representative Sophie Phillips and Senator Charles Paradee, passed the Economic Development, Banking, Insurance and Commerce Committee on June 25.
Supporters say the goal is to reduce waste. Critics argue it places unnecessary burdens on food service businesses already facing staffing shortages and high demand. If signed into law, businesses would have two years to adjust. After that period, fines would begin at $100 for a third violation and increase to $500 after a fifth violation. Dine-in service would be exempt.
Businesses would still be permitted to offer self-serve stations for single-use items without penalty. Opponents say the legislation focuses on low-impact optics rather than meaningful reform, especially in an industry still recovering from inflation, labor gaps, and supply chain disruptions. The bill now moves to the full General Assembly for debate.
