DE HB212

Prohibits stores with at least 7,000 square feet of retail space or 3+ locations with 3,000+ square feet each from providing single-use plastic carryout bags to customers effective January 1, 2021.

Allows stores to provide plastic bags only for specific purposes including frozen foods, meat, flowers, packaged garbage bags, live animals, chemicals, clothing on hangers, and loose bulk items.

Requires affected stores to establish at-store recycling programs with visible collection bins for plastic bags and film, maintain records of collection and recycling, and make reusable bags available for purchase.

Permits stores to offer paper bags at no cost or any price and permits customers to purchase reusable bags made from cloth, hemp, nylon, or durable plastic that meet capacity and durability standards.

Establishes civil penalties of up to $500 for first violation, $1,000 for second violation, and up to $2,000 for subsequent violations, with collected penalties funding enforcement and program administration.