Bob Smith

Significant legislation that would require food waste to be recycled by places that generate a lot of it has been approved by the Legislature.

The proposal was revised to take effect in 18 months, rather than two years. Last legislative session, it was approved by the Senate but not the Assembly.

Even before a new climate change center at Rutgers gets off the ground, its proposed state funding has been shrunk by three-fourths.

Plastic straws would survive, though only available by request. Supermarkets would be required for to give out reusable bags for free for two months.