The new year means many Rockville businesses are prohibited from using plastic carryout bags after the Mayor and Council voted to apply Montgomery County’s Bring Your Own Bag Law in the City of Rockville.
The goal of the law, which takes effect Thursday, Jan. 1, is to reduce waste, protect our waterways and encourage everyone to bring their own reusable bags.
What the New Law Means
No more plastic carryout bags at many businesses. Plastic carryout bags will no longer be allowed starting Thursday, Jan. 1, with certain exceptions.
Paper bags will cost 10 cents each. If you forget your reusable bag, you can purchase a paper bag at the checkout.
Bring reusable bags. Save money and the environment by keeping reusable bags handy. They’re sturdier, hold more and won’t rip on the way home.
Exemptions from the Law
Plastic bags are still allowed in some instances, including medications from pharmacies, fresh produce, meats, seafood or bulk items, farmers markets, yard sales, and dry cleaning and garment bags.
The 10-cent paper bag tax does not apply to transactions paying with SNAP/ EBT (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/Electronic Benefits Transfer), WICFVC (Women, Infants and Children) or other state-approved food assistance benefits at a grocery store.
Restaurants are not required to collect the tax from customers for paper bags used to carry out prepared or leftover food or drink.
Learn more about the law at montgomerycountymd.gov/bag, where you will also find a “Report a Bag Tax Law Violation” link for reporting a possible carryout bag violation by a retailer.
