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HB 1412

Business Regulation - Retail Stores - Carryout Bags

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Gabriel Acevero and 2 co-sponsors

Maryland bill regulates retail carryout bags to reduce plastic waste, requiring stores to use alternatives or implement fee structures affecting both businesses and consumers.

Hearing 3/05 at 1:00 p.m. (Environment and Transportation)
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Bill Summary · HB 1412

Legislative bill overview

HB 1412 proposes regulations on carryout bags used by retail stores in Maryland. The bill appears to address single-use plastic bag usage, though the specific provisions require examination of the full text. This is part of a broader national trend toward reducing plastic waste in retail environments.

Why is this important

Retail carryout bags represent a significant source of plastic pollution and litter in Maryland's environment and waterways. How the state regulates these bags affects both consumer behavior, retail business operations, and environmental outcomes. The policy choice—whether to ban, tax, or require alternatives—has measurable impacts on waste streams and business costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Business compliance costs: Retailers may argue that purchasing alternative bags or implementing new systems creates operational expenses that could be passed to consumers
  • Consumer convenience vs. environmental goals: Restricting free single-use bags may inconvenience shoppers while effectiveness depends on whether consumers adopt reusable alternatives
  • Exemptions and fairness: Questions about which retailers must comply, whether small businesses receive different treatment, and how online/delivery services are regulated could create competitive concerns

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

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