https://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?201+sum+SB11.

The legislation currently authorizes any county or city in Virginia to impose a five-cent tax on each disposable plastic bag no earlier than January 1, 2021. The bill allows retailers that collect the tax to retain a portion of the five-cent tax and provides that the revenue accruing to the county or city be used for purposes that include environmental cleanup and the provision of reusable bags.

But for the law to take effect in Fairfax County, the Board of Supervisors would first need to pass a resolution to authorize the tax. FACS does not advocate the supervisors authorize the tax at this time. But let’s not get rid of this important tool.

During the pandemic, single-use plastic bags may actually be safer than reusable bags. Most people don’t wash reusable grocery bags every time they return from the story. That’s why San Francisco, Albuquerque, the state of Oregon, and other jurisdictions have temporarily suspended laws meant to curtail the use disposable plastic bags.

The pandemic will eventually be over. The Governor should not veto this hard-fought law that the fossil fuel industry and others have opposed for so long. He should amend it to permit to provide for the ability to suspend the tax in emergency situations like the current coronavirus pandemic.

Plastic bags made from fossil fuels can’t be recycled. When burnt, they contribute to Greenhouse Gas pollution and climate disruption. They contribute to plastic waste and are expensive for local governments to collect and bury in the landfill.

Email Governor Northam Today

Many groups that support the status quo are lobbying Gov. Northam to veto the bill. The governor needs to hear from ALL Faith Alliance for Climate Solutions supporters loud and clear how important you believe it is to amend and sign into law the tax on disposable plastic bags.

If you are a constituent, say so in your first line. If not, tell him that you live in Fairfax County, mention your involvement with FACS, your congregation or faith community, and that addressing accelerating climate disruption and plastic waste is a moral imperative.

Email Don’t Call

Calls are not as impactful as a short email, as government officials count emails for and against, but often miss calls. Please customize the email text provided, don’t forget to mention FACS, and that you live in Fairfax County. Reaching out NOW to Gov. Northam through his top aides is critical.