As a supporter of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), I'm writing to urge you to advance an updated version of Int. 936 which will restrict food service establishments from offering single-use plastic beverage stirrers and straws. An updated version of this bill should reflect consensus reached by leaders of the environmental, disability and hospitality communities.

Single-use plastic straws and stirrers cannot be recycled, so they either end up in landfills or as litter where they eventually wind up in the ocean. Scientific studies demonstrate that single-use plastics are entering New York's waterways, and threatening wildlife and ultimately human health. Eventually these plastics break down into smaller pieces, known as microplastics, which wildlife, and potentially humans, ingest.

This bill (Int. 936) prevents bars and restaurants in New York City from offering consumers single-use beverage straws or stirrers made of plastic. It would still allow food service establishments to offer consumers single-use and reusable straws that are safe for the environment. It also includes an exemption that requires food service establishments to provide appropriate straws for people with disabilities without inquiry.

Please make New York City a leader in the fight to reduce single-use plastics in our oceans and waterways and vote for passage of Int. 936 -- the Single-use Plastic Straw Ban.