Drinking around the world at EPCOT could look a little different if new Florida legislation passes.
Paper straws at Disney World
According to WKMG News 6, legislation was filed on December 18th that would “set guidelines for local government rules involving the materials used for drinking straws and stirrers.” As of now, the types of drinking straws and stirrers businesses provide are largely left up to local municipalities or the businesses themselves, but this new bill seeks to change that.
The measure (SB 958) is sponsored by Sen. Jennifer Bradley, R-Fleming Island, and says that it is intended to “combat the harmful impacts of paper drinking straws” and “provide businesses and residents of this state with better alternatives to single-use plastic straws and stirrers.”
Reusable straw
According to the proposal, the change is needed to “promote uniformity of drinking straw and stirrer regulations throughout this state, rather than forcing businesses to comply with a patchwork of local regulation.”
The bill would require local governments with straw regulations to “opt for ones that are renewable, home compostable certified, industrial compostable certified, and marine biodegradable.” The upcoming legislative session begins on January 13th, 2026, which is when the bill will be discussed and voted on.
Stay hydrated!
“Many businesses and communities in this state are using paper drinking straws and stirrers as a purportedly better option for public health and the environment. However, independent university studies have shown that most paper straws contain harmful PFAS chemicals, exposure to which is linked to concerning health risks,” according to the bill.
A 2023 study by the University of Antwerp, which is widely cited, found PFAS or “forever chemicals” in many straws.
Stitch Straw Clip
Several companies have replaced plastic straws with paper or plant-based straws due to environmental concerns — including Disney World and many independent businesses that operate within it. Additionally, multiple Florida cities have banned single-use plastic straws at businesses or city-owned venues, including Orlando, West Palm Beach, Miami Beach, St. Petersburg, and Fort Lauderdale.
As for how this could further impact Disney World, that remains to be seen.
Silicone straw set
We’ll be on the lookout for more updates about this potential new Florida law and beyond. In the meantime, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news and more!
How To Get the Most Value Out of Your Disney World Hotel
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Are you team paper straw, plastic straw, reusable straw, or no straw? Let us know in the comments.
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
I doesn’t work. As a pass holder biodegradable straws break down immediately when drinking it’s fine for animal kingdom where those are animals to protect. But in Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood studios it is unnecessary and impractical it goes right to the trash 🗑️! I’m sorry but as a pass holder I’m say , No! And putting my Foot Down!
It’s easy, eliminate drinking straws entirely. There are few beverages that truly require needing them.
But it’s so much easier to drink something with a straw when you have a top on the cup so you won’t spill. And you also drink more with a straw, important if you want to stay hydrated.
Leave it to the FL R to spend our money on a law against “straws” when shelves are empty and people have to make choices between a roof over there head or food on the table. But oh, do spend time and our money on straws. Dumb