Massachusetts debates potential ban on single-use plastic bags

Massachusetts lawmakers are considering a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags as part of a broader $3.6 billion environmental bond bill.

State leaders estimate more than 2 billion plastic bags are used across Massachusetts each year, many of which end up as litter.

Shoppers spoke with NBC 10’s Martha Konstandinidis about the potential ban. (WJAR)

If approved, stores would no longer provide plastic bags at checkout. Shoppers would need to bring reusable bags or pay at least 10 cents for paper bags.

Under the proposal, half of that fee would go toward a state Plastic Environmental Protection Fund, while the remaining portion would stick with retailers.

More than 160 communities in Massachusetts, including Boston, already have local plastic bag bans in place. Shoppers in Seekonk had mixed reactions to the proposal.

“It’s kind of environmentally better, but they shouldn’t be charging people for the bags,” said Bill Joyal.

Some shoppers supported the change, citing environmental concerns.

“That’s a great idea. There’s too much plastic in the environment,” said John Kochanski of Rumford. “I use cloth reusable bags.”

Still, some worry about added costs at checkout.

“Now we’ve got to pay for the bags when the prices for the food you’re shopping for are already too expensive,” said Frank Formisano of Seekonk.

In Rhode Island, the state has already implemented a similar statewide plastic bag ban in 2024, along with a paper bag fee.

Lawmakers on Beacon Hill have passed similar proposals before, but they have not become law. The current bill also includes funding for climate resilience, clean water projects and infrastructure upgrades.

The proposal was up for debate in the Senate on Wednesday. If it passes, it would still need approval from the House and Gov. Maura Healey before becoming law.