Vermont on The Verge of a Plastic Bag Ban or Fee?

Vermont has considered measures to ban or levy fees on disposable plastic bags for many years, but two proposals in Vermont could put an end to, or at least significantly reduce the use of disposable bags.

One measure would ban single-use plastic bags and nonrecyclable paper bags. The second measure would impose a 10-cent fee per bag handed out at the checkout.

Both proposals have already missed key legislative deadlines, so they will not pass during this session. The earliest a ban or fee could pass would be 2018.

Bad News for The Environment as Iowa Bans Plastic Bag Bans

Iowa has joined the ranks of Michigan, Arizona, and Florida with a recently passed piece of legislation that prevents cities and counties within the state from passing plastic bag bans, or measures that would levy fees or taxes on disposable plastic bags. There was interest in several Iowa communities in banning plastic bags, and as is typically the case, once one municipality passes a ban neighboring cities and counties will follow their lead. Plastic bag bans prevent environmental harm and can be good for the planet and communities. It’s disappointing news when we hear about bans on plastic bag bans becoming a reality.

Plastic Bag Bans Matter! Here’s How to Start a Bag Ban in Your Community

Single-use plastic bag bans are becoming more common and sought after by communities and states like California that want to protect our environment. Plastic bag bans allow communities to prevent litter, and the resulting harm and costs caused by litter and its clean up.

Even as some states are looking to limit or ban plastic bag bans, there is still a very strong movement and increased interest in plastic bag bans. Have you thought about starting a bag ban in your hometown? We’ve outlined the steps to starting a plastic ban ban in your community, but here are some more tips to help you implement plastic bag bans.

Update on Coral Gables Plastic Bag Ban

Coral Gables is on the verge of becoming the first city in Florida to pass a ban on single-use plastic bags! The proposal already passed the first vote. A second and final vote was scheduled for March 28, but unfortunately, that vote did not happen. As of now the vote is on hold and the future of the bag ban in Coral Gables is still undecided. If approved, the ban would prevent the use of single-use plastic bags at city special events and by retailers.

Why Minnesota Wants a Ban on Plastic Bag Bans

Disposable plastic bag bans are gaining visibility in Minnesota and we think that’s great. In fact, Minneapolis passed a plastic bag ban that goes into action in June. Duluth is also considering implementing a bag ban of their own.

Still, some state lawmakers are not on board with this trend, and are discussing a bill to ban plastic bag bans. Although there is a lot of support to ban plastic bags due to the environmental impact, a new movement is forming in response to the state’s efforts to ban plastic bag bans. Read on to find out why Minnesota is working to put an end to plastic bag bans in their state.