CT SB00349

Requires stores to charge a minimum of 10 cents per single-use carryout bag from October 1, 2015 through October 1, 2017, with collected funds used for compliance costs and customer education campaigns.

Prohibits all single-use carryout bags effective October 1, 2017, allowing stores to provide only 100% recyclable, compostable, or recycled paper bags (at minimum 10 cents each) through October 1, 2019.

Requires all bags provided or sold by stores to be reusable bags starting October 1, 2019, with specifications including handles, machine washability, minimum 2.25 mils thickness for plastic bags, and prohibition of lead or cadmium.

Mandates stores implement employee training and customer education campaigns, establish collection points for used bags, and display required labeling statements on recyclable, compostable, and recycled paper bags.

Establishes penalties of $1,000 per day for first violation, $2,000 per day for second violation, and $5,000 per day for third and subsequent violations, enforced by local municipalities.