FSM Information Services
Press Release
President Panuelo Signs Public Law No. 21-76: An Act to Prohibit One-Time-Use Disposable Styrofoam, Plastic Food Service Items, & Plastic Shopping Bags
PALIKIR, Pohnpei—On February 7th, 2020 His Excellency David W. Panuelo, President of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) signed Public Law No. 21-76. This law amends Title 25 of the FSM Code by enacting a new Chapter 4 entitled “Prohibition on the importation of one-time-use disposable Styrofoam and plastic food service items and plastic shopping bags.”
Starting July 1st, 2020, it shall be unlawful for a person to import one-time-use disposable Styrofoam and plastic food service items, such as plates, cups, eating utensils, and plastic shopping bags.
The new law explicitly states that nothing shall prevent a person from importing reusable, or recycled Styrofoam, plastic food service items, or plastic shopping bags. Biodegradable plastic bags and food service items may be imported.
“In order for the [FSM]’s Climate Change pleas to be taken seriously by the global community,” President Panuelo said, “We must demonstrate courage and conviction in our actions, and compassion and care towards our environment and our citizens. We must lead by example. This new ban on disposable plastic, which allows the importation of reusable and recycled plastic, shows that it is possible to be environmentally conscious while still retaining sensitivity to the conveniences appreciated by citizens and the business community.”
“I want to thank our 21st FSM Congress for their bold leadership on this issue,” President Panuelo continued. “I appreciate beyond words that the calls Vice President George and I have made on safeguarding our environment are taken seriously by our Nation’s Legislative Branch. Truly, our actions today are our Nation’s prosperity tomorrow!”
President Panuelo noted that he urges all citizens of the Nation to take pride in their islands’ environment. “I encourage all citizens to be stewards of our islands. We are, each of us, guardians of our environment. It should be taught in schools, in community houses, and in homes that our actions as individuals affect our broader society, and each of us has the responsibility to keep our homes and our islands clean,” the President said.
Citizens wishing to review Public Law No. 21-76 themselves may find it here: https://gov.fm/files/PL_No__21-76_Prohibit_the_Importation_of_Styrofoam_and_plastic_items_.pdf
