New York to Enforce Plastic Bag Ban Starting October 19th: What You Need to Know

Beginning October 19th, New York State will officially enforce its ban on single-use plastic bags, a significant step towards environmental sustainability. Although the law was enacted in March, its enforcement was postponed due to litigation from the plastic industry. However, following a favorable ruling from a state judge on August 20th, the restrictions are set to take effect.

This legislation prohibits the distribution of plastic carryout bags at grocery stores and numerous other establishments. It specifically targets single-use plastic bags used in home grocery deliveries. However, there are exceptions. Plastic bags that hold sliced or prepared foods, such as unwrapped meat, poultry, and fish, as well as fruits, vegetables, grains, and candy will still be permitted. Additionally, common food storage bags, including snack and sandwich bags, as well as trash bags, will remain available for purchase.

As part of the new regulations, local governments have been authorized to impose a 5-cent fee on paper carryout bags, an option that will continue under the new enforcement rules. Plastic garment bags from dry cleaners, bags used in restaurants and bars for covering prepared food, and those used by pharmacies for medications will also be excluded from the ban.

The primary goal of this law is to promote the usage of reusable bags. The legislation defines “reusable bags” as durable, machine-washable fabric bags with handles, designed for at least 125 uses and capable of holding a weight of 22 pounds over a distance of 175 feet.

Elizabeth Moran, the Environmental Policy Director for the New York Public Interest Research Group, emphasizes the importance of enforcement: “As with any environmental protection law, enforcement is critical,” she noted. “While many stores are adhering to the regulations, there are still some that are not compliant. It’s essential that we have the necessary oversight to ensure that this law is effectively implemented.”

The environmental impact of single-use plastic bags is substantial. Although these bags are typically used for only a few minutes, they can persist in the environment for up to 400 years and pose serious threats to wildlife both on land and in aquatic ecosystems. National Geographic reports that approximately 8 million tons of plastic waste enter the oceans annually, which translates to five garbage bags of trash for every foot of coastline worldwide. In New York alone, an estimated 23 billion plastic bags are used each year.

Under the new enforcement provisions, businesses will receive