Plastic bag ban regulations finalized; takes effect March 1

The new law prohibits retailers from handing out single-use plastic bags to customers.

News 12 Staff

Feb 19, 2020, 12:35 PM

Updated 1,534 days ago

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In a little over a week, no more plastic bags will be available at grocery stores.
Regulations have been finalized by the state for the plastic bag ban to officially begin March 1.
The new law prohibits retailers from handing out single-use plastic bags to customers.
The ban has received push back from shoppers and businesses that make and sell plastic bags.
On Tuesday, the Department of Environmental Conservation finalized the new rules after a 60-day public comment period.
"Reusable bags" must now be made of cloth or other machine-washable fabric or a non-film plastic washable material.
Environmental advocates worry loopholes still exist that could allow retailers to get around the law - by providing customers with thicker plastic bags.


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