The New Law Going Into Effect That Will Affect All Of New York State
By Lea Monroe
|
Published February 23, 2020
Here at Only In New York, we like to keep our readers updated on not only the newest attractions and establishments to visit but also things like the latest laws that are going into effect in our state! To ensure that you’re being the best law-abiding resident of the Empire State that you possibly can be, it’s time to educate yourself on the latest law going into effect as of March 1 in 2020. Take a look!
According to reports, more than 23-billion plastic bags are typically used each year here in New York and our state is finally ready to do something about it.
Currently, a total of eight states around the U.S. have banned single-use plastic bags - California, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, Oregon, Vermont, and now… New York!
As of March 1, 2020, a new single-use plastic bag reduction law will go into effect here in New York State.
In a major effort to prevent further plastic bags from being produced, only to so often end up in waterways, landfalls, up in trees, and causing serious harm to wildlife, all plastic carryout bags will be banned from distribution by anyone that’s required to collect New York State sales tax.
Not all single-use plastic bags will part of the ban that falls under New York State's latest law though, and don't worry - we have the full list for you below!
According to New York State's latest law, single-use plastic bags that will be exempt from this law will include things like Uncooked animal products or other non-prepackaged food, flowers, plants, or other items that require plastic to avoid contamination, prevent damage, or for health purposes, bulk packaging of fruits, vegetables, grains, candy, hardware products like nuts, bolts, and screws, live insects like crickets, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, or other items that require a waterproof bag, sliced food or food prepared to order, newspapers for subscribers, prepackaged plastic bags sold in bulk, such as garbage bags, sandwich bags, or bags used for pet poop pick-up, dry-cleaner or laundry service clothing bags, and pharmacy bags for prescription drugs.
If you’re a New Yorker who's looking to acquire a free reusable bag and you don’t already have one, you can take the Zero Waste Pledge online where your city will mail you your own reusable bag.
So, what will happen to retailers who violate New York State’s newest law? After a first warning, retailers will receive a fine of $250 dollars, while violations received after that and within the same calendar year will see penalties of $500 dollars
To view all of the details of New York State's newest Bag Waste Production law, click here .
To stay further up to date on all that's happening with New York State's newest plastic bag ban, check out the Department of Environmental Conservation's page
here !
Wondering what else is new and happening around the Empire State? Then you’ll enjoy also reading about how Some Of The Healthiest Places To Live In 2020 Are Right Here In New York!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Related Articles
Featured Addresses