Starting March 1st, Consumers will need to bring reusable bags to retail and shopping establishments – not just grocery stores. Information for consumers relating to the ban such as exceptions and exemptions, where to find reusable bags, and how to best prepare can be found HERE. To help spread public awareness, a statewide #BYOBagNY campaign has launched and informational materials may be found there.
Food retailers such as Tops, and Wegman’s, have already or are ready to implement the ban – however, small businesses have raised questions relating to implementation throughout the state. The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has released information to help prepare small businesses, retailers, and manufacturers for implementation which may be found here and here. Business owners or shopping establishments who have questions regarding implementation of the ban or otherwise are encouraged to contact DEC via email at [email protected] or call (518) 402-8706.
