Single-use plastic bags banned in California - Hartford wellness

California took over as first state to legally ban single-use plastic bags at supermarkets along with other convenience stores yesterday, much on the consternation of The American Progressive Bag Alliance, a national coalition of plastic bag manufacturers, which is seeking consumer support to achieve the new law repealed before it goes into effect next July. The group has recently begun airing commercials inside state 'blasting the ban being a cash give-away to grocers that could eventually lead for the loss of thousands of jobs there.'
According towards the new law, SB270, plastic bags can be phased out at checkout counters at the above stores, as well as at pharmacies by 2016. However, it would not apply to bags with pockets used by fruits and vegetables or meats, nor would it prevent the using plastic bags used at other retailers. However, it can permit grocers to charge customers 10 cents (or higher) for making use of paper bags.
Supporters of the ban, however, have labeled it 'a major milestone' for the environment.
'The bill is often a step in the right direction. It reduces the torrent of plastic polluting our beaches, parks as well as the vast ocean itself,' commented Governor Jerry Brown after signing it into law. 'We are the first to get ban these bags, and that we won't be the very last.'
It needs to be noted however, although California will be the first to look at statewide action against plastic bags, several cities nationwide, including Chicago, Seattle and Austin, have already enacted similar bans. It has recently been reported that Hawaii is poised to adhere to California's example with every one of its counties approving the action.