Update:

Effective July 1, 2021, a local law prohibits the use of products containing latex in food establishments and requires public notification of latex use in other businesses.

Local Law 7-2021 prohibits food establishments from using products containing latex such as gloves, utensils and food packaging in the course of normal business.

Local Law 7-2021 also requires all business establishments where products containing latex are used in the course of normal business to prominently display a sign stating that "products containing latex are utilized at this establishment" within 8 feet of customer entrances to the establishment, and adjacent to or behind the point of sale, if applicable.

The sign linked in the Resources section on this page meets the law’s requirements if it is printed a minimum size of 8 ½" x 14" and is protected from damage, tampering or concealment.

Exemptions (signs not required):

• Products containing latex purchased and transported to an establishment by a private individual for short-term use of one (1) business day or less
• Products containing latex that are completely enclosed in packaging for resale
• Products containing latex that have been chemically treated to remove reactive proteins

Effective January 1, 2020, the use of drinking straws is restricted in Suffolk County. The purpose of this law is to reduce the use of plastics in Suffolk County and help protect its natural resources.

Local Law 20-2019 requires that single-use beverage straws and stirrers are provided to consumers only upon request.

• Single-use straws that are individually wrapped in plastic may not be provided.
• Beverage straws and stirrers, where provided, must be biodegradable or backyard compostable.

Exemptions:

• Beverages provided at a drive-thru window or obtained by the consumer at a selfservice beverage station may be provided with a straw and/or stirrer without request
• A consumer with a disability or medical condition may be provided with a plastic or other non-biodegradable straw if the consumer so requests
• Pre-packaged, individual serving beverages that include a small plastic straw as part of the packaging are exempt

Effective January 1, 2022, the use and distribution of polystyrene (Styrofoam) products is banned in New York State. The law is enforced by NY State Department of Environmental Conservation. For more information, visit: https://on.ny.gov/FoamFreeNY