Bill > A05072

This bill modifies an existing law regarding paper carryout bag reduction fees by implementing a two-phase approach to fee distribution. During the first year after a local law, ordinance, or resolution imposing the fee is enacted, 40% of the collected fees will be returned to the county or city that implemented the fee, specifically to be used for purchasing and distributing reusable bags, with a priority on providing these bags to low- and fixed-income communities. After the first year, the 40% will instead be remitted directly to the businesses or entities that collected the fees. Any unused funds at the end of the fiscal year will be returned to the state comptroller and deposited into the general fund, with the continued goal of purchasing and distributing reusable bags to low- and fixed-income communities. The remaining fee monies will be deposited into the environmental protection fund. This amendment aims to support both local governments and businesses while promoting sustainable practices around single-use paper bags.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5072