Maine became the first state to ban single use styrofoam containers after Gov. Janet Mills signed the bill into law on Tuesday, April 30.
The state banned styrofoam food containers at state facilities and functions in 1993, but the new law will prohibit establishments like restaurants and grocery stores from using styrofoam containers. Environmental groups have sought bans of throwaway plastic that accumulates in the oceans.
“With the threats posed by plastic pollution becoming more apparent, costly, and even deadly to wildlife, we need to be doing everything possible to limit our use and better manage our single-use plastics — starting with eliminating the use of unnecessary forms like plastic foam,” said Sarah Lakeman, Sustainable Maine director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine.
These pollution concerns have propelled other states like Oregon, Vermont and Connecticut to consider passing a similar law.
Opponents from food service container manufacturers argue styrofoam is economical and that the law will not deter consumers from littering or ensure that alternative materials will be better for the environment. The bill will take effect in 2021.
Minnesota governor Tim Walz signed a bill repealing the marital rape exemption. Previously, Minnesota law prevented prosecutors from filing sexual assault charges against people accused of raping their spouse.
Minnesota is currently one of seventeen states still allowing some form of marital rape exemption.
According to a family statement, actor Peter Mayhew, known for his portrayal of Chewbacca in Star Wars, died in his home. Mayhew was 74 years old. The family did not disclose cause of death.
On Tuesday, April 30, the 2019-2020 undergrad student government general counsel and executive board was announced. Junior Logan Monahan was elected student body president running under the platform “we are better together.”
The other executive board members include Caroline Ludwig as executive vice president, Joel Gmach as VP of administrative affairs, Aria St. James as VP of academic affairs, Viridiana Martinez as VP of diversity, Derek Nauman as VP of financial affairs and Joshua Crespo as VP of public relations.
Tina O’Malley can be reached at omal4989@stthomas.edu.