Bill > H4167

This bill authorizes the town of Acton to establish a mandatory minimum charge of at least $0.15 for checkout bags (bags provided by retail establishments to customers at point of sale), with specific exemptions for certain types of bags used for specific purposes like containing produce, prescription medications, or protecting items from damage. The bill defines "retail establishment" broadly to include stores, restaurants, pharmacies, and other businesses selling directly to consumers. Retail establishments must separately itemize the bag charge on customer receipts and are permitted to retain the revenue from these charges. The Acton Board of Health will have the authority to oversee the implementation of this bag charge, including developing regulations and rules to enforce the law. The bill includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the law remains in effect, and it will take effect three months after its passage. The primary goal appears to be reducing single-use plastic bag consumption by introducing a financial disincentive for customers to use disposable checkout bags.

Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4167