California Moves to Ban Reusable Plastic Bags in Grocery Stores

New legislation aims to close loopholes and reduce plastic waste by requiring paper or higher-standard reusable bags by 2026.

State Senate and Assembly have approved bills targeting thick reusable plastic bags.
The bills mandate paper bags or reusable bags that meet stringent recycling criteria.
If signed by Governor Newsom, the ban will take effect on January 1, 2026.
Environmental groups support the measures, citing increased plastic pollution.
Opponents argue the ban could raise costs and lead to unintended consequences.