California Governor Signs SB 1053 Banning All Plastic Grocery Bags by 2026

Sep 23, 2024, 07:59 AM

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 1053 into law on Sunday, banning all plastic grocery bags in the state. The law, which will take effect on January 1, 2026, requires customers to use paper or reusable bags instead. This legislation aims to address environmental concerns by eliminating single-use plastic bags from grocery store checkouts. California had previously banned thin plastic bags, but allowed thicker plastic bags that were considered reusable and recyclable. The new law closes this loophole, mandating a complete shift away from plastic bags in favor of more sustainable alternatives.