New bill looks to ban plastic bags in Delaware

DELAWARE – A Delaware bill that just introduced this week would limit the use of plastic bags at Delaware retailers.

House Bill 130 expands Delaware’s existing at-store recycling program by largely prohibiting single-use carryout plastic bags at large and chain stores.

Under the bill, stores with more than 7,000 square feet of retail sales space, or chains with three or more locations would be affected.

It’s a change not everyone is a fan of.

“If they realize the impact, especially the impact on your low income people it will be a negative impact to that type of customer. And it is something that is going to have to be passed on, you show me a business that doesn’t pass on additional expenses and I’ll show you a business that doesn’t continue to make it,” explains Sen. Gerald Hocker.

The legislation also encourages retailers to make reusable or paper bags available and includes exceptions for restaurants and bags used to wrap meat, fish, flowers, potted plants and more.

The bill is set to be assigned to the House Natural Resources Committee.