Bill > S2422

This bill aims to reduce the use of single-use plastic bags by retail establishments in Massachusetts. The key provisions are: 1. Retail establishments are prohibited from providing customers with single-use plastic bags, unless the bag falls under certain exemptions (e.g., for produce, meat, prescription medication, etc.). 2. Retail establishments can provide recycled paper bags or reusable bags for a minimum price of $0.10 per bag. The revenue from the recycled paper bag sales will be distributed to cities and towns for programs related to reusable bags, litter prevention, recycling, and waste reduction. 3. Smaller retail establishments with limited locations and sales are exempt from the $0.10 fee requirement. 4. The bill preempts any local regulations on carryout bags, except for certain municipal ordinances approved by January 1, 2020. 5. The Department of Environmental Protection is required to inform the legislature of any regional or national shortages in the paper bag supply chain. The bill aims to encourage the use of more environmentally-friendly alternatives to single-use plastic bags in Massachusetts.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/S2422