Assemblywoman Annette Quijano introduced A4549 in order to allow stores to provide a recyclable paper bag option at checkout in addition to reusable bags. Now, while the bill is moving, and while there is support for the bill, there is also opposition.

In my last blog, I noted that the original plastic bag ban included a paper bag ban late in the process. I also noted that while I do not agree with the paper bag ban, I applaud the plastic bag ban results.

Interestingly, we hear arguments that paper bags are detrimental to the environment in a different way than plastic bags. Oddly, the reusable bags are made of plastic as well…and while they can be reclaimed and reused…they do have their own environmental problems….We also hear that the bill outlined is simply a way to help generate jobs in the Assemblywoman’s district; i.e., it is about the money.

Well, let’s be honest. Food stores don’t want to pay for paper bags and that is one of the reasons that paper bags were added to the original ban…

Clearly, paper bags don’t create the litter issues that plastic bags create…and they certainly are much more recyclable…

This is an interesting action and an interesting dialogue…I am curious as to what you think?

Read The Full Articles Here:
Op-Ed: NJ’s bag ban needs an update
What Shopping Bags Should I Use?