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Single-Use Plastic Bag Regulations on a State Level

California would have been the first state to pass a state wide law regulating single-use bags. However, with that on hold and not going to a public vote until fall of 2016, many other states are still reviewing how to handle the issue. The State of Hawaii is technically covered by single- use bag regulations, but this is only because of the individual counties that have passed legislation. There is no actual State wide law regulating single – use bags in Hawaii.
This year we see states not deciding on the single use bag issue, but evaluating whether municipalities in their state should be able to decide that issue. Arizona, Pennsylvania and Missouri have all had bills that they have been evaluating. One state passed a law, another vetoed the law and a third is still evaluating the law.

  • In July, Gov. Jay Nixon vetoed a bill in Missouri that would limit local governments’ power to enact laws regulating plastic bag use. Nixon said House Bill 722, which would amend two chapters of Missouri statutes relating to prohibited ordinances by political subdivisions, is a “clear example” of unwarranted government intrusion and an abandonment of the principle of local control.
  • As of June, the State of Pennsylvania, has introduced House Bill 1280 that has introduced their own version of this type of law that would limit local municipalities from passing single use bag regulations. HB 1280 is currently pending.
  • In April this year, the State of Arizona successfully passed SB 1241 into law that municipality cannot implement laws that regulate or ban plastic bags.

Make sure to keep checking our website for updates on single use bag legislation that is pending or being implemented. Our retail packaging specialists stay on top of the ever changing market conditions. Let us help you navigate bag legislation in the municipalities you sell into and select the best packaging for your stores. We hope that you will contact us by phone at 888-429-5673 or via email at baglaws@swalter.com.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for individual advice regarding your specific situation. S. Walter Packaging does not warrant the accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the information and materials contained in this site or the compliance with any particular federal, state or local laws and expressly disclaims liability for any errors or omissions in the information and materials.