Local plastic bag ban planned to predate state ordinance

  • 2014-05-04
Pleasant Hill is mulling over an ordinance that would ban plastic and paper single-use carryout Bags being distributed by retail establishments.

As it stands now, the ordinance would include restaurants but would exclude garment bags from dry cleaners, plastic bags for meat, fresh produce, and prescription drugs.

Consumers will have the option of using recycled paper bags, available for 10¢ each, bringing their own reusable bag, or forgoing a bag and carrying the purchase out in hand. It is anticipated that the cost per paper bag might increase to 25¢ over time.

The California Restaurant Association is seeking an exemption for take-out restaurant bags, pointing out that paper bags are prone to tearing due to food leaking into the bag. Moreover, as is the case with fresh meat and produce, it says there is a risk of encountering E.coli and other harmful bacteria.

Pleasant Hill is attempting to pass its own ordinance before a statewide one introduced by State Senator Padilla's bill is passed. A provision in that proposed legislation would prevent it from pre-empting similar local ordinances adopted prior to September 1, hence the self-imposed deadline of July for passage.

With the help of a Print company, local merchants may be able to turn passage of such an ordinance to their advantage. Providing promotional reusable bags to customers either with a specified purchase amount or at a discounted price will provide a service to customers, as well as a means of advertisement.
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