Texas Roadhouse takeout orders change forever in just DAYS as August 1 ‘skip’ law looms

TAKEOUT orders at Texas Roadhouse and other restaurants in a US state will look different in just days as part of a new law.

The move comes as several areas of the country start implementing policies to reduce the waste foodservice operators produce.

On August 1, 2026, all New Jersey restaurants, food trucks, cafes, and other businesses serving meals and drinks can no longer include single-use plastic utensils, napkins, or condiment packets for takeout orders.

Instead, customers must request these materials.

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Additionally, full-service restaurants in the state with a seating capacity of 10 or more must offer reusable utensils for those dining in.

This could be silverware or other sustainable and washable utensils.

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These requirements are part of Bill S3195, otherwise known as the “Skip the Stuff” law.

Another portion of S3195 also requires that Texas Roadhouse and other establishments adjust their online ordering systems to default to “no utensils or condiments.”

Customers will have to manually opt in for them instead.

It’s important to note that the law expands in phases.

Starting on August 1, 2027, restaurants in New Jersey will no longer be permitted to offer utensil packs that have multiple disposable items.

A year later, on August 1, 2028, food court vendors will have to comply with this aspect of S3195.

Violators could face up to $250 fines for multiple offenses.

However, there are some exceptions to the “Skip the Stuff” law.

K-12 schools, health care facilities, and correctional facilities are exempt.

New Jersey’s “Skip the Stuff” law is an expansion of efforts already made to reduce single-use plastics and the state’s impact on the environment, according to the Department of Environmental Protection.

There are already restrictions on plastic carryout bags, Styrofoam food containers, and plastic straws.

Although restaurants and businesses may incur some added costs to switch in the short term, the New Jersey Office of Legislative Services estimates long-term savings.

US takeout and food delivery have a massive impact on the environment.

Clean Water Action data revealed that Americans throw away around 40 billion plastic utensils every year.

Virginia also implemented a Styrofoam ban in early July.

Dollar Tree has a new fee for plastic bags that will be effective in just days.