Committee advances 'Skip the Stuff' bill limiting automatic distribution of single-use service items

The Health and Human Services Committee voted 4–3 to advance Senate Bill 146, known as "Skip the Stuff," which would require food-service businesses to provide single-use accessory items such as utensils, straws and condiment packets only when a customer requests them.

Sponsor Senator Cutter said the measure is intended to reduce waste, contamination of composting and recycling systems, and costs for restaurants that supply large volumes of unrequested items. Student advocates from Cherry Creek High School described outreach to local restaurants and customers and said businesses reported savings when the policy was implemented in Denver.

Witnesses offered contrasting views: environmental and zero‑waste advocates urged a default of not offering items and stronger local enforcement; the mayor of Fountain and other business representatives testified the policy imposes burdens on restaurants and should be left to local jurisdictions.

The committee adopted several sponsor amendments clarifying application to digital marketplaces (L001), exempting patient meals and schools (L002, L005), clarifying consumer interaction language (L003), and adding legislative findings and environmental-justice language (L004). After the amendment phase, Cutter moved the amended bill to the Committee of the Whole with a favorable recommendation; the motion passed 4–3.

Next steps: SB 146 will be considered by the full Senate Committee of the Whole. If approved, it would create a statewide "request-or-confirm" requirement and include the adopted exemptions and clarifications.