Texas House Bill HB1361

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the imposition of a fee for certain plastic bags provided to customers by retailers.

Impact

The implementation of HB1361 would revise the current regulatory framework surrounding plastic bags in Texas. By mandating a fee on disposable bags, the bill encourages consumers to make environmentally sustainable choices, aiming to reduce plastic waste in landfills. It establishes a new revenue stream for local governments, as money collected from these fees will be allocated to a dedicated local recycling program assistance account, thus supporting community recycling initiatives and potentially improving local waste management practices.

Summary

House Bill 1361 aims to address the environmental impact of plastic waste by imposing a fee on disposable plastic bags provided by retailers. Specifically, the bill establishes a seven-cent fee for each disposable plastic bag supplied to customers at the point of sale. This initiative seeks to encourage customers to opt for reusable bags while also generating revenue that can be directed toward local recycling programs. The bill also introduces clear definitions for different types of bags, including disposable and compostable plastic bags.

Contention

While proponents argue that this bill could significantly reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainability, there may be contention surrounding its financial implications for retailers and consumers alike. Some retailers may oppose the additional administrative burden of collecting the fee, while consumers might resist an additional charge at checkout, especially those who do not have immediate access to reusable bags. The debate may also extend to discussions about the effectiveness of such fees in changing consumer behavior and the overall impact on local environments.