What We Know: Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway has joined a coalition of 15 states in a lawsuit challenging California’s Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act.
What It Means: The lawsuit argues that the California law places requirements on businesses far beyond the state’s borders and could increase costs for consumers across the country.
Hanaway said the case centers on concerns about state authority and the effect California regulations may have on companies operating in other states, including Missouri.
Supporters of the lawsuit say businesses could be forced to change packaging practices in order to continue selling products in California.
They argue that those costs could eventually be passed on to consumers.
The lawsuit also questions the role of the Circular Action Alliance, a private organization involved in overseeing parts of the program.
The coalition contends the group would have significant authority with limited public oversight.
What’s Next: The states involved are asking the court to block enforcement of the law and declare portions of it unconstitutional.
Missouri joined the lawsuit alongside Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Iowa, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and West Virginia.
The legal challenge is expected to continue as courts consider the law’s impact on businesses and consumers nationwide.
(Photo provided by Mo.gov)