12 US States Ban Single-Use Plastic Bags in Retailers

Several U.S. states are enacting or expanding bans on single-use plastic bags to reduce environmental harm caused by plastic pollution. California will prohibit retailers from distributing plastic bags beginning January 1, 2026, allowing only recycled paper bags for a small fee, while providing free bags to certain low-income shoppers. Oregon has expanded its restrictions to phase out thicker plastic bags by January 2027, requiring retailers to use recycled paper bags with some exceptions. At least 12 states, including California, Colorado, and New York, have similar bans, with Pennsylvania potentially becoming the 13th as legislation is proposed to ban plastic bags statewide and encourage use of paper bags for a fee. These laws aim to combat plastic pollution that contributes to microplastic contamination in water, food, and even human tissue, and reduce the substantial plastic waste found in U.S. landfills and coastal debris. The measures often include exemptions for produce, frozen foods, and medications, and some incorporate educational campaigns to raise awareness about the environmental and health impacts of plastic bags.