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HD 410

An Act authorizing the town of Concord to establish a fee for checkout bags

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Mike Barrett and 2 co-sponsors

Concord, Massachusetts gains local authority to implement checkout bag fees at retail stores to reduce plastic waste and fund environmental initiatives.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HD 410

Legislative bill overview

HD 410 grants the town of Concord, Massachusetts authority to establish and collect fees on checkout bags provided to customers at retail establishments. This is a local option bill that allows Concord to implement its own bag fee policy without requiring statewide legislation. The bill delegates regulatory power to the town rather than imposing a uniform state mandate.

Why is this important

Bag fees are a policy tool aimed at reducing single-use plastic waste and encouraging reusable bag adoption. For Concord specifically, this addresses local waste management goals and environmental concerns while generating potential revenue. Towns with such policies have documented reduced plastic bag usage, though effectiveness depends on fee structure and enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive impact: Fees disproportionately affect lower-income residents who may lack reusable bags and cannot easily absorb the additional cost
  • Competitive disadvantage: Concord retailers may face cost pressures if neighboring towns without bag fees attract price-conscious shoppers
  • Implementation complexity: Requires clear definitions of covered bags, exemptions (produce bags, pharmacy items), and enforcement mechanisms across multiple retailers
  • Revenue allocation: The bill should clarify whether collected fees fund environmental programs or become general revenue, which affects public perception

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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