The intent of this chapter is to improve the environment in
Rye by encouraging the use of reusable checkout bags and banning the
use of plastic bags for retail checkout of purchased goods. Retail
establishments are encouraged to make reusable bags available for
sale.
Nonbiodegradable plastic bags often are discarded into the environment
and end up polluting our waterways, clogging sewers, endangering marine
life and causing unsightly litter. These bags last hundreds of years
in landfills and are a potential source of harmful chemicals when
they do break down.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter,
shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section:
CHECKOUT BAG
A carryout bag that is provided to a customer at the point
of sale. The term "checkout bag" does not include plastic produce
bags or plastic bags measuring 28 inches by 36 inches or larger in
size.
PLASTIC PRODUCE OR GARMENT BAG
A flexible container made of very thin plastic material with
a single opening that is used to transport clothing from a dry cleaner,
produce, meats or other items selected by customers to the point of
sale.
RECYCLABLE PAPER BAG
A paper bag that should have the following characteristics:
A.
Contains no old-growth fiber;
B.
Is 100% recyclable overall and contains a minimum of 40% post-consumer
recycled content; and
C.
Displays the words "Reusable" and "Recyclable" on the outside
of the bag.
RETAIL SALES
The transfer to a customer of goods in exchange for payment
occurring in retail stores, sidewalk sales, farmers' markets, flea
markets and restaurants. The term "retail sales" does not include
sales of goods at yard sales, tag sales, other sales by residents
at their home, and sales by not-for-profit organizations.
REUSABLE BAG
A bag with handles that is specifically designed and manufactured
for multiple reuse and is:
A.
Made of cloth or other fabric; and/or
B.
Made of durable plastic that is at least 2.25 mils thick.
This chapter shall become effective six months following its
adoption to allow retail establishments to dispose of their existing
inventory of plastic checkout bags and convert to alternative packaging
materials.