The controversial ordinance regarding the distribution of single-use bags in stores will go into effect in San Luis Obispo County on Oct. 1.
The ordinance is meant to extensively reduce plastic bag usage without becoming a complete inconvenience to shoppers. Plastic bags handed out in any retail establishment will be illegal, and while paper bags are not strictly banned, stores must charge a fee if the customer asks to use paper bags. The fee may be determined by the particular store, but must be at least 10 cents. Furthermore, the ordinance mandates that stores sell reusable bags for the customers’ convenience.
