Maine Lawmakers Crack Down on Hotel Toiletries to Promote Environmental Sustainability
Maine proposes ban on small plastic toiletry containers at lodgings, fining violators $100.
The Maine state legislature is moving forward with a new bill aimed at reducing plastic waste by banning small, single-use toiletry bottles in hotels and other lodging establishments. The legislation, known as LD 1928, would prohibit hotels, motels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, inns, time-share properties, short-term rentals, and vacation rentals from providing personal health or beauty products in plastic containers under six ounces to guests.
The measure is part of a broader drive to curb plastic pollution and promote environmentally sustainable practices across the hospitality industry. If passed, the law will take effect in two stages: beginning January 1, 2030, it will apply to all lodging establishments with more than 50 rooms. Two years later, in 2032, the ban will expand to cover smaller establishments with fewer than 50 rooms.
Violators of the proposed law could face penalties: the bill stipulates that hotels or lodging facilities caught providing banned single-use toiletries would receive a civil violation and be subject to a $100 fine. The legislation, however, leaves some questions unanswered, such as whether these items may still be sold to guests instead of provided complimentary in rooms or bathrooms.
The move is part of a nationwide trend toward eliminating single-use plastics in the hospitality industry. Several major hotel chains have already voluntarily made changes. Marriott Hotels, for example, has transitioned to larger, pump-topped bottles in guest rooms, stating it is “part of our commitment to reduce plastic waste.” Hilton, another industry leader, reported that as of 2023, all its properties are required to use full-sized amenities rather than disposable miniatures.
Maine’s legislative efforts follow similar actions in other states. New York, California, and Illinois have already enacted bans on small hotel toiletry bottles, and Washington’s restrictions are set to go into effect in 2027. These state laws reflect growing environmental concerns and a shift in consumer expectations regarding sustainability in travel accommodations.
As Maine positions itself to join this group, backers of the bill argue that such measures are crucial for tackling unnecessary plastic waste and encouraging responsible tourism. Industry watchers note that switching to refillable dispensers and larger, reusable containers is likely to become the new norm across the United States’ hospitality sector in the coming years.
