In the City of Fort Collins' most recent election, residents voted to ban single-use plastic bags at large retailers, and now, Colorado lawmakers have passed HB21-1162.

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According to Colorado Public Radio, the bill banning plastic bags 'received its final approval from the legislature Tuesday (June 8),' and once Governor Polis signs off, it will become a law.

Gaelle Marcel on Unsplash
Gaelle Marcel on Unsplash
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While Fort Collins' plastic bag ban will go into effect on May 1, 2022, the timeline for Colorado is much more drawn out. CPR reported that starting in 2023, there will be a the a ten-cent fee for bags at stores, and by July of 2024, local governments can impose stricter restrictions on plastics, if they chose.

Smaller stores will be exempt, however major retailers and grocers will be the ones who must follow the ban law. Additionally, the Denver Post said that 'people receiving food assistance will be exempt from the bag fee.' You can read more about Colorado's plastic bag ban here.

Restaurant to-go orders will look different, too.

The bill also prohibits a retail food establishment, on and after January 1, 2022, from distributing an expanded polystyrene product for use as a container for ready-to-eat food in this state.  - Colorado.gov

In Fort Collins, plastic bags will be completely banned at large stores, and the fee on paper bags will be twelve cents. According to the City of Fort Collins, half of the revenue from fees will go to the retailer, and half will go to the city. The City of Fort Collins said it will also be 'making free reusable bags available to the community.'

The City of Fort Collins offers tips for reducing your household plastic use, as well as where (and what types of plastic) you can recycle locally.

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