Better Bag Bill – Plastic Bag Ban

Better Bag Bill – Plastic Bag Ban 

1. Why the ban? 

To protect the environment, marine life, and reduce litter.

2. Who is affected? 

All retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores, or any other establishment that provides single-use plastic bags to its customers as a result of the sale of a product, or service whether for-profit or not-for-profit. 

3. What’s out?

Single-use plastic bags 

4. What is allowed? 

Stores and restaurants shall use/sell paper bags or reusable bags at a minimum 10-cent fee. "Reusable carryout bag" means a bag with stitched handles specifically designed and manufactured for multiple reuse and is made of: Cloth or other washable fabric; Or a durable material suitable for multiple re-use that is not made of plastic film.

5. Are there any exceptions? 

• Plastic bags used to: Package bulk items, including fruit, vegetables, nuts, grains, candy, or small hardware items; Wrap frozen foods, meat, or fish, whether prepackaged or not; Wrap flowers, potted plants, or other damp items; Contain unwrapped prepared foods or bakery goods; Protect or contain garments or dry–cleaned clothes; protect suits, dresses, and formal wear; Take live fish, insects, mollusks, or crustaceans away from the retail store.
• Charge for paper bags used to: Contain pharmacy prescriptions; Package prepared food provided at the drive-through window; and Provided by a full-service restaurant after a meal for leftovers.