Montgomery County has taken a big step to fight pollution with a new law banning single-use plastic bags. Since January 1, most stores in the county can no longer give out plastic carryout bags at the checkout. Instead, customers who need a bag must pay at least 10 cents for each paper or reusable bag.
The ban covers almost all plastic carryout bags handed out at the register. Stores can still offer paper bags and reusable bags, but they must charge at least 10 cents for each. The fee is shown as a separate line on the receipt, and stores keep all the money from bag sales. The law says that retailers must post signs at checkouts to let customers know about the new fee.
Not every bag is banned or comes with a fee. There are some important exemptions. Bags used for fresh produce, nuts, grains and other unpackaged food are still allowed. So are bags for meat, fish and bakery goods, as well as bags for prescription drugs, newspapers, dry cleaning and door hangers. Customers can also still buy packages of trash bags or food storage bags.
Montgomery County’s goal is to reduce plastic pollution in local rivers and streams. Plastic bags often end up as litter, harming wildlife and dirtying the environment. The law also encourages people to use reusable bags, which cuts down on waste and helps protect nature. The DEP is in charge of enforcing the law. Stores that break the rules can be fined $100 for the first offense and $200 for each one after that.
Not everyone is happy with the change. David Deckert, manager of Congressional Aquarium in Rockville, said the new rules have caused problems for his business. “We had to switch to paper bags, and they just don’t hold up as well as the plastic ones we used to use. Sometimes customers complain if the bags tear, and it’s costing us more money.”
Students in the county also have strong opinions. Junior Brazil Thomas worries about how the law will affect older people. “My grandmother always used the plastic bags for things around the house. It’s going to be harder for her if she can’t get them anymore,” Thomas said.
Another student, junior Olivia Shin, is not sure about the change either. “I’ve always used plastic bags when I shop. I’m skeptical about switching to paper because they don’t seem as strong,” Shin said.
To help people adjust, the county has given out free reusable bags at community events and has worked to educate both businesses and residents. Early reports show that the law is making a difference. There are fewer plastic bags in county waste and local streams, suggesting the ban is helping to protect the environment.
By making the switch from plastic bags, Montgomery County hopes that by changing how people shop, it can lead the way toward a cleaner, greener future for everyone.
