LANSING, Mich., Feb. 5, 2021 — State Rep. Felicia Brabec (D-Pittsfield) introduced legislation this week that would repeal the act preempting local ordinances from instituting a plastic bag ban.
“The negative impact of plastic bags on the environment is undeniable, and restrictions on the use of plastic bags are widespread across the country and around the world,” said Brabec. “Plastic bags are sources of pollution that scientists say can take hundreds—if not thousands—of years to completely degrade in natural environments. Municipalities should be given the opportunity to regulate the use of certain plastics, should they wish to.”
Plastic use is expected to triple in the next 20 years. Communities that want to reduce their overall plastic waste aren’t allowed to institute a plastic bag ban, even if that is what the majority of their residents want. This legislation empowers local communities to fight for a more sustainable future.
###