Maine 2025-2026 Regular Session

Maine House Bill LD69

Introduced
1/6/25  
Refer
1/6/25  

Caption

An Act to Repeal the Law Restricting the Use of Certain Plastic, Paper and Single-use Bags

Impact

The immediate effect of LD69, if passed, would allow businesses and consumers to freely use plastic and paper bags without the restrictions imposed by the previous regulations. Proponents of the bill may argue that this could ease economic burdens on retailers and improve customer convenience. However, this shift could potentially result in adverse environmental consequences due to increased plastic waste and pollution. The bill may signal a departure from state-led environmental protections in favor of economic considerations, sparking a broader debate about sustainability and responsible resource management.

Summary

LD69 is an act aimed at repealing the existing law that restricts the use of certain plastic, paper, and single-use bags. This legislative proposal arises from ongoing discussions about the environmental impact of plastic waste and the increasing calls for sustainable practices. By eliminating restrictions on the use of these bags, the bill seeks to revert to a prior state where these materials can be utilized more freely by consumers and businesses alike. This change reflects a significant shift in policy towards bag usage that was previously governed by tighter regulations.

Sentiment

General sentiment around LD69 appears to be mixed, with advocacy groups and environmentalists likely opposing the repeal while business interests may support it. This polarization signifies a deeper ideological divide about environmental stewardship versus economic freedom. Supporters of the bill might emphasize the desire for consumer choice and lower costs, while detractors could highlight the importance of reducing plastic waste and its implications for the environment and community health. The discussions surrounding LD69 reveal a conflict between economic interests and environmental protection goals.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the discourse surrounding LD69 include concerns regarding the environmental implications of repealing the bag restrictions. Environmental advocates fear that increased plastic use would exacerbate pollution and hinder progress towards sustainability goals. On the other side, supporters argue for the economic merits of repealing the law, advocating for less intrusive regulation on businesses. The outcome of the bill could reshape the legislative landscape around environmental policy in the state, affecting how local entities approach waste management and environmental protections in the future.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

ME LD425

An Act to Lower the Environmental Impact of Consumers, Increase Food Safety and Strengthen Consumer Choice by Ending the Ban on Single-use Plastic Shopping Bags

ME LD214

An Act to Amend the Laws Regarding Zoning and Land Use Restrictions to Limit Certain Requirements to Municipalities with a Population of More than 10,000

ME LD1686

An Act to Eliminate Unconstitutional Restrictions on Access to Cannabis by Removing Certain Restrictions on Medical Use and Personal Use and to Recognize Cannabis and Hemp as Food Protected as a Right Under the Constitution of Maine

ME LD572

An Act to Remove the 5 Cent Fee for Bags in Retail Stores

ME LD1645

An Act to Reduce Plastic Packaging Waste

ME LD1418

An Act Concerning Single-use Disposable Water Bottles and Water Refill Stations

ME LD2189

Resolve, Regarding Legislative Review of Portions of Chapter 41: Special Restrictions on Pesticide Use, a Major Substantive Rule of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, Board of Pesticides Control

ME LD2134

An Act Regarding Responsibility for Activities Intended to Increase the Use of Refillable and Reusable Beverage Containers

ME LD1909

An Act to Modernize Maine's Beverage Container Redemption Law

ME LD1087

An Act to Remove Restrictions in the Provisions of Law Relating to No-knock Warrants

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.