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California to Ban All Single-Use Plastic Bags by 2026

12/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

California will ban all single-use thin plastic bags and reusable plastic film bags in grocery, pharmacy, liquor, and convenience stores starting January 1, 2026.
This legislation follows Senate Bill 270 and its update, Senate Bill 1053, which also prohibits thicker plastic bags that could be reused up to 125 times.
Recycled paper bags will be available for at least 10 cents, with free options for specific food program participants.
The law aims to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability, addressing concerns raised by a 2022 investigation that found only two recycling facilities accepted plastic carry-out bags.

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Story summary

California will ban all single-use thin plastic bags and reusable plastic film bags in grocery, pharmacy, liquor, and convenience stores starting January 1, 2026.
This legislation follows Senate Bill 270 and its update, Senate Bill 1053, which also prohibits thicker plastic bags that could be reused up to 125 times.
Recycled paper bags will be available for at least 10 cents, with free options for specific food program participants.
The law aims to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability, addressing concerns raised by a 2022 investigation that found only two recycling facilities accepted plastic carry-out bags.