Enforcement of the new Rhode Island plastic straw law has been minimal since it took effect more than a year ago.
The Rhode Island Department of Health says it has not fined any businesses for violating the law, as restaurants and other establishments have continued to give customers straws without being asked to do so.
Warwick state Representative David Bennett, who pushed for the law, says the health department is still checking on compliance during regular inspections.
Bennett says that the law has turned to more about education rather than fining eateries who do not comply.
An business that does not comply could be subject to fines of up to 300 dollars.
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