Bill > S01497

This bill amends the existing environmental conservation law to modify how paper carryout bag reduction fees are distributed during the first year after a local law, ordinance, or resolution is implemented. Specifically, during the initial year, 40% of the collected fees will be returned to the county or city that imposed the fee, with the requirement that these funds be used to purchase and distribute reusable bags, prioritizing low- and fixed-income communities. After the first year, the 40% will instead be remitted directly to the business or entity that collected the fees. The bill ensures that any unused funds at the end of each fiscal year will be returned to the general fund and used to purchase and distribute reusable bags, again with priority given to low- and fixed-income communities. The remaining collected fees will continue to be deposited into the environmental protection fund. This legislation aims to support both environmental sustainability efforts and provide financial assistance to communities in transitioning to more eco-friendly bag usage practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S1497