Attorney General James Uthmeier has sent notices to nearly 80 companies linked to the U.S. Plastics Pact, the Consumer Goods Forum, or the Sustainable Packaging Coalition. The letters raise concerns about possible violations of antitrust and consumer protection laws due to these companies’ involvement with certain environmental initiatives.
“Multiple advocacy organizations have pressured companies into artificially changing the output and quality of their goods and services in way that normal market forces would not otherwise bring about,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “These groups were warned that their activity presents serious conflicts with antitrust and consumer protection laws, and advocacy for a particular agenda is not a basis to mislead consumers.”
The recent letters follow previous correspondence from October 29, 2025, in which Uthmeier and a coalition of attorneys general addressed similar concerns directly to the environmental groups. The main issues highlighted involve policies and compliance frameworks that may conflict with federal and state antitrust statutes.
The new communications were addressed directly to companies identified as current members of one or more of these environmental organizations. The letters caution that ongoing participation or coordination could result in antitrust liability.
According to the letters, by establishing uniform production and packaging targets and determining which materials are considered recyclable, these organizations might be limiting competition, reducing consumer options, and affecting product quality.
Uthmeier noted that similar industry actions have been discontinued in the past following worries over antitrust law violations. The notices also inform companies that attorneys general may use subpoenas or other legal tools to gather more information if necessary.
Each company receiving a letter has been asked to explain how its involvement does not violate antitrust or consumer protection laws.
The Florida State Executive Attorney General’s office plays an active role in protecting residents statewide through public service efforts such as educational programs on fraud prevention, consumer alerts on scams, resources for seniors and military veterans, collaboration with law enforcement initiatives like Back the Blue Campaign, and offering channels for complaint submissions. These activities are detailed on its official website at https://www.myfloridalegal.com/.
