New Jersey Secretary of State Tahesha Way and New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Acting Commissioner Shawn M. LaTourette are encouraging Garden State business owners to prepare for the launch of New Jersey’s ban on single-use carryout bags and polystyrene foam food service products in stores and food service businesses. According to a press release, on Nov. 4, 2020, Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation into law which prohibits the use of single-use plastic carryout bags in all stores and food service businesses statewide, and single-use paper carryout bags in grocery stores that occupy at least 2,500 square feet beginning May 4, 2022. The law is designed to reduce pollution and protect New Jersey’s environment and economy for generations to come, according to the press release.