Bill > H4168

This bill, titled "The Plastic Bag Reduction Act," amends existing Massachusetts General Laws by introducing a new chapter to reduce pollution from plastic bags. It defines key terms such as "postconsumer recycled material" (materials that have completed their intended use and would otherwise be discarded), "recycled paper bag" (a 100% recyclable paper bag clearly labeled as reusable and recyclable), "reusable grocery bag" (a durable bag designed for at least 175 uses, made of industrial vinyl or washable fabric), and "single-use carryout bag" (any bag provided by a store at the point of sale that doesn't meet the definitions of a recycled paper bag or reusable grocery bag, with specific exceptions for pharmacies, protecting other items, unwrapped food, and clothing on hangers). A "store" is defined as a retail establishment with at least 3,000 square feet of public space or three or more locations under the same ownership. The bill prohibits stores from providing single-use carryout bags to customers starting August 1, 2018. Before that date, stores can sell single-use carryout bags, reusable grocery bags, or recycled paper bags for at least ten cents ($0.10). After August 1, 2018, stores can only sell recycled paper bags or reusable grocery bags for a minimum charge of ten cents ($0.10), with all collected money retained by the store. The Department of Environmental Protection will create regulations for enforcement, and the bill clarifies that it does not prevent further limitations on single-use carryout bags by the state or local governments, though existing local ordinances may not be grandfathered in.