Plastic bag ban one step closer to becoming law in Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH — The ban on plastic bags across the city of Pittsburgh is one step closer to being signed into law.

However, not everyone is on board.

The debate among residents over the proposed measure is intensifying.

“Agree to 100%. Maybe we can save the animals in the ocean, cut down on pollution,” said Barbara Gainer of Pittsburgh.

“We already got inflation when it comes to groceries and basically everything. So, I didn’t feel like that would be the greatest situation,” said Christopher Gary of Pittsburgh.

Within the next year, you will likely be seeing fewer plastic bags at city grocery stores and when you order takeout at restaurants.

Pittsburgh City Councilperson Erika Strassburger of City Council District 8 reintroduced legislation banning the distribution of single-use plastic bags today.

She says the overall aim is to cut down on waste and pollution.

“It’s everything from public health to the quality of life in our neighborhoods. We know that we can do so much better as Pittsburghers,” said Strassburger.

Here are the noticeable changes and takeaways in the amended legislation:

- The new updated bill still bans single-use plastic bags, but it won’t take effect until one full year after it’s signed into law.

- The ban allows paper bags with a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled content to be offered for a fee by retailers.

- Recycled paper bags will now cost 10 cents for shoppers, instead of the initial 15 cents proposed last time.

- These, as well as reusable bags, will be given at no charge for lower-income residents.

“If you are a benefits holder for SNAP or WIC and you show your card, you are exempt from paying the 10-cent fee,” said Strassburger.

Strassburger says city officials will also work to help raise funds privately and publicly to get city-sponsored reusable bags, and to assist small business owners with pilot programs over the next year so they can be prepared for the official rollout.

“This is really about leaving our city in a better place for our children and our grandchildren and future generations.’

The city council is expected to take a final vote next Tuesday at 10 a.m.

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