The Golden State makes environmental history!
I am one very proud Californian today! On Tuesday, California Governor Jerry Brown Signed legislation SB270 that will prohibit all pharmacies and grocery stores from offering single-use plastic bags beginning in July, 2015.
With this law in place, we’ll see less of this. A very good thing
A year later, in July 2016, liquor and convenience stores will have to follow suit. The law does not apply to department stores. California is the first state to do this! It truly is a victory. Plastic bags are just one of the many items harming wildlife and polluting beaches, parks, streams and oceans.
“Once again, California is leading the nation in environmental protection,” said Assemblymember Marc Levine. “This bill will protect our streams, waterways, and wildlife. I thank Governor Brown, Senate President pro Tempore Elect De León, and Senators Padilla and Lara for their leadership on this historic legislation.”
According to Mark Murray, executive director of Californians Against Waste California spends between $34 and $107 million dollars on plastic bag cleanup every year. SB270 also cuts costs for stores since they won’t be purchasing them anymore.
Plastic manufacturers are, of course, looking to have this overturned. Let’s not let that happen. Those who oppose this claim jobs will be lost but Murray says, “we’re seeing job growth in California at facilities that produce better alternatives.”
Stores will be required to offer recyclable paper bags. They’ll be able to charge 10 cents a bag so keep some reusables in your car, I’ve been doing this for years. There are many issues that need improvement here in California but this is a positive step in the right direction regarding our environment.
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