Statement on Cuomo’s plastic bag ban bill: A fee on paper is critical

Governor Cuomo today introduced a bill banning single-use plastic bags in New York State.

Jeremy Cherson, Riverkeeper Advocacy Coordinator, said:

“Riverkeeper is encouraged that Governor Cuomo is taking plastic bag pollution seriously. However, the evidence does not support a ban on plastic with no fee on paper bags. The fee on paper is critical to reduce waste and foster a culture of reusable bags. Riverkeeper supports legislation introduced by Senators Krueger and Hoylman and Assemblyman Englebright – S7760 / A9953 – modeled on California’s successful plastic bag ban and fee on paper. We look forward to working with the Governor and Legislature to move an effective policy forward.”

More information:

Take action – Celebrate Earth Day: Help ban the bag
Clean your shoreline: Join Riverkeeper Sweep, May 5, 2018
5 things you can do to reduce plastic pollution (& they’re not hard at all)