Texas House Bill HB1877

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/28/11
• Refer: 3/7/11

Caption

Relating to the imposition of a fee for certain plastic bags provided to customers by retailers to fund a grant program to support local recycling efforts.

Impact

Upon enactment, HB1877 would modify the state statutes by adding Chapter 376 to the Health and Safety Code, thereby introducing a framework for managing disposable plastic bag usage. The generated fees from this charge would be deposited into a newly created Local Recycling Program Assistance Account, which would fund grants aimed at developing and enhancing local recycling programs. This approach not only aims to tackle the plastic waste problem but also encourages local governments to establish or improve their recycling capacity, which could lead to broader environmental benefits.

Summary

House Bill 1877 proposes the imposition of a five-cent fee on disposable plastic bags provided to customers by retailers. The primary aim of this bill is to generate revenue to fund a local recycling assistance grant program, which will support municipal and county recycling efforts across Texas. By establishing this financial incentive, the bill seeks to encourage retailers and consumers to shift towards more environmentally sustainable practices, particularly regarding the use of plastic bags that contribute to pollution and waste management issues.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB1877 appears to be cautiously optimistic among proponents who emphasize the need for legislative measures that support environmental sustainability. Supporters argue that the bill fosters responsible consumer behavior by directly connecting the use of plastic bags to recycling efforts. However, there may be some opposition from businesses concerned about the added financial burden on consumers, which could affect sales. The bill's success largely hinges on its reception by both consumers and retailers.

Contention

Notable points of contention center around the potential for local governments to effectively implement the resulting grant program, as well as concerns over how the fee would impact lower-income consumers who rely on disposable plastic bags. Critics may express worry that such measures could be perceived as regressive, disproportionately affecting those who may already struggle with costs. Therefore, discussions on the bill may involve finding a balance between environmental stewardship and economic fairness.