The oil and petrochemical lobby is challenging a New York state proposal aimed at reducing plastic waste, arguing that it will unfairly impact people of color, despite evidence showing the health risks posed by the plastic supply chain to Black and brown communities. The bill seeks to cut plastic packaging by 30% over 12 years, increase recycling rates, and eliminate certain toxic compounds from packaging, with revenue from a fee on large businesses benefiting taxpayers through extended producer responsibility.

While the bill has Senate support and advocates backing its environmental benefits, it faces opposition from business interests and the American Chemistry Council, which has reportedly spent over $2 million to push against the legislation. Lobbyists have targeted the assembly’s Black, Puerto Rican, Hispanic, and Asian American legislative caucus, claiming the bill will raise food prices and harm communities of color. However, bill supporters denounce these tactics as racist and manipulative, emphasizing the disproportionate impact of plastic production and waste on marginalized communities.

Critics of the bill, including industry groups, argue that it would raise consumer prices, but advocates point to studies showing minimal cost increases from similar programs. Despite opposition, some lawmakers, including members of the targeted caucus, have supported a competing bill favored by business interests, which lacks key progressive elements of the original legislation.

As the assembly deadline approaches, the debate underscores the broader implications of plastic reduction efforts on environmental justice and public health, with advocates highlighting the urgent need to address the harmful impacts of plastic pollution on communities of color.