Connecticut House Bill HB06011

Connecticut 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/19
• Refer: 1/24/19

Caption

An Act Regulating The Transition From Plastic, Single-use Carryout Bags To Reusable Bags.

Impact

If passed, HB06011 would lead to substantial changes in retail practices regarding bag distribution. The legislation mandates a marked reduction in plastic bag usage, aligning state laws with growing national trends toward environmental responsibility. Retailers would need to adapt their operations to comply with the new regulations, potentially leading to increased operational costs and changes in consumer behavior regarding shopping habits and bag usage.

Summary

House Bill 06011 aims to regulate the transition from plastic single-use carryout bags to reusable bags within the state. The proposed legislation establishes a three-year period during which the distribution of single-use plastic bags is reduced by 80%. During this timeframe, retailers are required to offer reusable bags for a fee of no less than 15 cents, with the proceeds retained by the retailer. This initiative seeks to significantly cut down plastic pollution in the state, promoting environmental sustainability and encouraging consumers to adopt more eco-friendly practices.

Contention

Noteworthy points of contention surrounding the bill include concerns from certain retail sectors about potential economic impacts and the feasibility of transitioning to reusable bags. Critics of the bill express worry that the fees associated with reusable bags might disproportionately affect lower-income consumers, raising questions about accessibility and affordability. Proponents argue, however, that the long-term environmental benefits justify the transition away from plastic, viewing it as a critical step toward addressing the broader issues of plastic waste and environmental degradation.