NEW YORK (1010 WINS) – Here’s what to know about New York State’s ban on most plastic bags, which goes into effect Sunday.
Background
The state uses over 23 billion plastic bags each year, and supporters of the plastic bag ban hope to reduce the number of bags in neighborhoods and waterways. The ban goes into effect March 1, 2020.
A law banning single-use plastic bags, which was passed last March, is controversial. Many say they hold onto their plastic bags to use for trash or other home uses, like carrying their lunches.
The ban applies to the ubiquitous plastic bags found at supermarkets and other stores. Officials warn that many of the bags end up harming wildlife and the environment.
Penalties
All stores that collect sales tax have to follow the law. Stores could face fines if they continue to hand out plastic bags. It’s $250 for the first offense and $500 for each offense thereafter.
Exemptions
Some bags are exempt from the law, including bags for uncooked meat and produce. Prescription drug bags and restaurant carryout bags are also exempt, as are bags for laundry, such as dry-cleaning bags. Trash bags and other bags sold in bulk are also exempt.
Alternatives
Most stores will stop handing out plastic bags, but some will still have paper bags—at a price. Cities and counties can choose to allow paper bags for a 5-cent fee; 3 cents go to the Environmental Protection Fund, while 2 cents go towards a campaign encouraging reusable bags.
State officials are urging residents to ditch plastic and paper bags altogether and instead buy reusable bags. Find more info about reusable bags here.
- Residents can also take the "Zero Waste" pledge and get a free bag.
- Residents can attend a reusable bag distribution event in their neighborhood. Here's a calendar of events.
More info
You can find out more about the law on the state website. There is also info on the 311 website, as well as on the Sanitation Department website. And here's the full text of the law.