Pre-filed Bill in Kentucky Would Ban Plastic Bags and Styrofoam
Every year, more than eight million tons of plastic end up in the ocean. And according to a UN environment report, the cost of all that plastic in damages to ecosystems in $8 billion. A bill that was filed ahead of Kentucky's legislative session would help reduce the amount of plastic and nonbiodegradable products we throw away.
Bill Request 999 would ban businesses from offering customers plastic bags to carry goods. An exception would be plastics used to prevent cross-contamination for foods such as meats and vegetables. The bill would also ban foam containers, make plastic straws by request only, and ban the outdoor release of more than 25 balloons at a time.
Democratic bill sponsor Mary Lou Marizan of Louisville said plastic bags are "unsightly and a danger fish and wildlife."
Opponents of the bill request say a new law isn't necessary as some retailers are already beginning to respond to customer attitudes. Kroger plans to phase out single-use plastic bags by 2025.
Indiana is one of three states that have banned the bans, in other words, they prohibit local governments from regulating the use of plastic bags.
Kentucky House Natural Resources and Energy Committee Chairman Rep. Jim Gooch of Providence says the bill is likely "too restrictive would stand much of a chance getting out of his committee." A similar bill was assigned to the committee last year but did not receive a hearing.
More From WBKR-FM
