Updates the definition of the term reusable bag

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Burdick and 1 co-sponsor

A 7759 updates the definition of 'reusable bag,' clarifying regulatory criteria and affecting labeling, sale, and rules for retailers, manufacturers, and consumers.

REFERRED TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

Summary of Bill A 7759 — Updates the definition of the term reusable bag

Overview

Bill number & title: A 7759, Updates the definition of the term reusable bag.

Status: Referred to the Environment Conservation Committee.

Introduction date: April 8, 2025.

Sponsor: Chris Burdick (primary); Tony Simone (cosponsor).

Related legislation: A 9942 (prior-session); Senate companion S 706 (listed as companion).

Purpose and intent

The bill aims to update the statutory definition of the term “reusable bag.” The goal appears to be clarifying and/or strengthening how a bag is categorized within environmental and consumer-use regulations, which can influence regulatory requirements for retailers, manufacturers, and others governed by environmental conservation statutes.

Key provisions and changes (as described)

The exact text of the updated definition is not provided in the summary. The bill would establish new criteria or modify existing criteria that determine what qualifies as a “reusable bag” under applicable statutes.

Because the definition governs regulatory treatment, changes could affect how bags are labeled, sold, taxed, or regulated under environmental conservation laws. Specifics (e.g., materials, durability standards, reuse expectations, or size thresholds) would be detailed in the bill’s text and any accompanying amendments.

Who is affected

Retailers and bag suppliers: may need to adjust products, labeling, or compliance practices based on the new definition.

Consumers: could benefit from clearer standards and consistency in what is considered a reusable bag.

Local governments and agencies enforcing environmental or consumer-protection rules related to bags: may apply the updated definition in their programs.

Manufacturers and distributors of bags: regulatory status and requirements could change accordingly.

Procedural and timeline considerations

The bill has been referred to the Environmental Conservation Committee, indicating it will be examined for policy, feasibility, and potential amendments before potential floor consideration.

The introduction date and referral date (April 8, 2025) are the primary procedural milestones available in the summary.

A Senate companion (S 706) exists, which may influence or reflect parallel considerations in the upper chamber; monitoring both tracks is common for companion bills.

Additional context

Related bill A 9942 (prior-session) suggests prior interest in updating the same or related definitions.

The exact legislative language, effective dates, implementation timelines, and any transitional provisions will be available in the bill text and committee reports.

Next steps for readers

Review the full bill text to understand the precise updated criteria for a “reusable bag.”

Monitor committee hearings and amendments in Environmental Conservation for potential changes.

Check for the Senate companion (S 706) for parallel developments and cross-chamber negotiation.