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Bill

HB 2233

Reducing environmental impacts associated with bags provided to customers at retail establishments.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Liz Berry and 12 co-sponsors

Washington bill proposes requirements on retail bags to reduce environmental waste; impacts retailers and consumers while advancing state sustainability goals.

Public hearing in the House Committee on Environment & Energy at 8:00 AM.
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Bill Summary · HB 2233

Legislative bill overview

HB 2233 seeks to reduce environmental impacts from retail bags by implementing restrictions or requirements on bags provided to customers at retail establishments in Washington State. The bill is currently in its early legislative stages, having been referred to the House Committee on Environment & Energy after its first reading on January 12, 2026. A public hearing is scheduled for January 15, 2026.

Why is this important

Single-use plastic bags create significant environmental challenges, including ocean pollution, landfill waste, and harm to wildlife. Washington has a history of environmental legislation addressing consumer products, making bag policy relevant to broader waste reduction and sustainability goals. The bill's outcome could influence purchasing practices for retailers and consumers across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and implementation: Unclear whether the bill bans certain bags entirely, requires fees, mandates alternatives (like reusable bags), or applies different rules to various retail sectors—each approach creates different economic and behavioral impacts
  • Economic burden on retailers: Compliance costs, inventory changes, and potential consumer friction could disproportionately affect small businesses versus large chains
  • Consumer convenience vs. environmental goals: Restricting free bags may inconvenience customers while reducing environmental benefit if people purchase replacement bags made from equally problematic materials

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

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