Index
Waste ManagementNew York

New York State Bag Waste Reduction Act

Summary

Prohibits all persons required to collect New York State sales tax from providing plastic carryout bags to customers, with specific exemptions for produce or pharmacy bags.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Businesses may still provide paper carryout bags, though some counties may charge a $0.05 fee.
  • 02.
    Small retailers are entitled to use plastic bags for raw meat, sliced foods, or bulk items like hardware.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Warning for the first violation.
  • 02.
    $250 for the second violation and $500 for any subsequent violation within the same year.

Verified Citations

NYS Environmental Conservation Law (ECL) Article 27, Title 28

Source
"No person required to collect tax... shall provide any plastic carryout bag to any customer, for any purpose, unless otherwise exempted."