How are low-income residents impacted?

All residents are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags, however, to ease the impact on low-income customers, retailers must waive the carryout bag fee for customers paying with a voucher or electronic benefits card issued under:

  • Women, Infants and Children (WIC)
  • Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) support programs
  • Federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Washington State Food Assistance Program (FAP)

The Plastic Bag Ban does not apply to food banks and other food assistance programs, but these organizations are encouraged to reuse bags whenever possible.

Show All Answers

1. Who does the ban apply to?
2. When did the ban go into effect?
3. What kind of bags are banned?
4. What kind of bags are allowed?
5. Are there any restrictions on customers bringing their own bags?
6. What are the exceptions to the single-use plastic bag ban?
7. What about compostable bags?
8. What are the requirements for reusable heavy-duty plastic bags sold in-store?
9. What is a “mil” (as in the 2.25 mil requirements for reusable plastic bags)?
10. Why did the state ban lightweight plastic carryout bags but allow heavyweight, thicker ones?
11. What happens to the carryout bag fee?
12. How will this ban be enforced?
13. How are low-income residents impacted?
14. What are some tips for remembering to bring reusable bags to the store?
15. How do I recycle plastic bags?