Fast-food chain to get head start on straw ban for dine-in customers

The first phase of a ban on plastic straws is about to begin. Starting July 1, government agencies, schools, department stores and fast food restaurants will no longer be allowed to offer plastic straws to diners who are eating in. One fast-food chain plans to get a head start by ditching straws at all of its locations in June. The chain says it will offer cold drinks with so-called "strawless lids."These lids are designed like coffee cup lids, with a flap that''s flipped up before you sip. Making the switch will cut plastic usage by an estimated 16%. After July, restaurants will still be allowed to provide straws for dine-in customers, but they''ll have to be made of paper.