Signed by Governor John Carney, Jr.

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits plastic bags.

Highlights:

• Defines “Department” as the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (Sec. 6099).

• Defines “Plastic carryout bag” as a bag made from non-compostable plastic and not specifically designed and manufactured to be reusable (Sec. 6099).

• Defines “reusable bag” as the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 6099):

• Is designed and manufactured to be used for at least 125 uses;

• Is machine washable or made from material that can be cleaned or disinfected; and

• Does not contain lead, cadmium or any other toxic material that may pose a threat to public health.

• Specifies that beginning January 1, 2021 no store shall provide singly-use plastic carryout bags to a customer at the point of sale except as provided for the following, including (Sec. 6099):

• Frozen foods, meat, or fish;

• Flowers, potted plants, or any other items that contain dampness;

• Bags used to contain live animals such as fish or insects;

• Bags used to transport pesticides and other chemicals; and

• Bags used for pet waste, yard waste, or garbage.

• Specifies that stores are encouraged to make reusable grocery bags or paper bags available at the point of sale at no cost to any customer participating in either the Delaware Food Stamp Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Women, Infants and Children (Wic) program (Sec. 6099).

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits plastic bags.

Highlights:

• Defines “Department” as the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (Sec. 6099).

• Defines “Plastic carryout bag” as a bag made from non-compostable plastic and not specifically designed and manufactured to be reusable (Sec. 6099).

• Defines “reusable bag” as the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 6099):

• Is designed and manufactured to be used for at least 125 uses;

• Is machine washable or made from material that can be cleaned or disinfected; and

• Does not contain lead, cadmium or any other toxic material that may pose a threat to public health.

• Specifies that beginning January 1, 2021 no store shall provide singly-use plastic carryout bags to a customer at the point of sale except as provided for the following, including (Sec. 6099):

• Frozen foods, meat, or fish;

• Flowers, potted plants, or any other items that contain dampness;

• Bags used to contain live animals such as fish or insects;

• Bags used to transport pesticides and other chemicals; and

• Bags used for pet waste, yard waste, or garbage.

• Specifies that stores are encouraged to make reusable grocery bags or paper bags available at the point of sale at no cost to any customer participating in either the Delaware Food Stamp Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and the Women, Infants and Children (Wic) program (Sec. 6099).

Full Bill Text