Bill > S06907

This bill clarifies and modifies existing New York State environmental conservation law regarding plastic carryout bags by updating definitions and requirements for stores, manufacturers, and recycling programs. The bill expands and refines the definition of "film plastic" and "reusable bags," adding more specific criteria for what qualifies as a reusable bag, such as minimum fabric weight, durability standards, and ability to carry weight over a certain distance. It requires stores to maintain recycling programs for plastic carryout bags and film plastic, mandates that stores make reusable bags available for purchase, and establishes more detailed record-keeping requirements for manufacturers and stores regarding plastic bag collection and recycling. The bill also updates penalty provisions, increasing potential civil penalties for violations from ranges like $250-$500 to ranges of up to $1,000-$5,000 depending on the number of infractions. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that stores that were previously required to comply with plastic bag recycling requirements must continue to do so, and it preempts local jurisdictions from creating their own regulations regarding plastic bag recycling, thereby establishing a uniform statewide approach to managing plastic carryout bags and film plastic.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S6907