A proposed New York City law would require businesses to allow customers to bring their own cups when ordering beverages, a move that is raising concerns among workers about potential challenges on the job.

Employees say the policy could lead to disputes, particularly when customers bring oversized containers. Potential kashrus concerns could also arise, as the norm among hashgachos is to not permit outside food and drinks into certified establishments.

The bill, introduced by City Council Democratic Majority Leader Shaun Abreu, aims to cut down on waste disposal costs and curb pollution by encouraging reusable alternatives.

“The city spends hundreds of millions of dollars on waste disposal each year, with single use plastics making up a significant portion. This bill will help reduce waste disposal cost,” Abreu told The New York Post.

“Businesses would have to spend less now on having to buy plastic cups.”

Under the proposal, businesses would be required to post signage informing customers of the reusable cup option, with penalties of up to $400 for failing to comply.

Workers would still be permitted to refuse cups that are dirty or do not meet size requirements, but some in the food service industry say logistical issues could arise, particularly for establishments that rely on specialized equipment.

At bubble tea shops, for example, machines are often designed to seal drinks using specific plastic lids, making it difficult to accommodate alternative materials like metal or glass.

Employees also noted that drink portions would continue to be measured according to standard recipes, regardless of the size of a customer’s cup.

Environmental advocates praised the legislation as a practical step toward reducing plastic use and giving consumers more sustainable choices.

“The idea behind it — that New Yorkers should have the choice to use their own reusable cups at restaurants and coffee shops —is a good idea and common sense. Each week it seems, we hear about another negative health impact from using plastics to package our food, especially hot food and drinks,” said Matt Gove of Reusable NYC. “Why shouldn’t New Yorkers have the choice?”

A hearing on the bill is expected in June.