CT HB05019

Establishes a five-cent minimum charge for single-use carryout bags made of plastic, paper, or other non-recyclable material at retail stores, effective October 1, 2019.

Defines "single-use carryout bag" to exclude pharmacy bags for prescriptions, protective bags for items placed in recyclable or compostable bags, bags for unwrapped food items, and bags for clothing on hangers or newspapers.

Applies to stores meeting specific criteria: full-line retailers with $2 million+ annual sales and 10,000+ square feet, convenience food stores, or foodmarts engaged in retail sales of limited goods or goods for off-premises consumption.

Requires stores to deposit all collected five-cent fees with the Connecticut Commissioner of Revenue Services for transfer to an account established under section 23-15h of the general statutes.

Intended to encourage consumer use of reusable bags.