Governor Wants to Ban Plastic Carryout Bags

May 9th, 2018

Last Monday, Gov. Cuomo announced legislation that would ban all single-use, plastic carryout bags at any point of sale in the state. The bill exempts garment bags, trash bags and any bags used to wrap or contain certain foods, such as fruits and sliced meats. The ban would go into effect on January 1, 2019, and would pre-empt any local laws on the issue. (Read the bill and sponsor’s memo.)

Some environmental groups want the Governor to go even further and ban (or impose a fee) on paper bags as well.

We have some questions and concerns about this new proposed mandate – specifically relating to whether it will increase consumer costs. There may be other, better ways of reducing plastic bag waste – such as promoting recycling – that can avoid new consumer costs while benefitting the environment.