Plastic bags pollute our communities, clog our storm drains and streams, and harm plants and animals. Like other plastic products, plastic bags contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental justice concerns at every stage of production and disposal, worsening the climate crisis, and they cannot be effectively or efficiently recycled. Banning single-use plastic bags is an important upstream solution that protects our environment and helps build toward a zero waste future.

Right now, the Baltimore County Council is considering the Bring Your Own Bag Act (Bill 1-23). This bill will ban plastic bags at most retailers and require stores to charge 10 cents per paper bag to encourage customers to bring their own reusable bags when shopping. Importantly, the bill includes an exemption from the 10 cent replacement bag charge for any purchases made with food assistance programs such as SNAP or WIC. This is a vital equity component to ensure this bill does not have a disparate impact on low-income County residents.

Urge the County Council to support the Bring Your Own Bag Act today!