HI SB2559

Prohibits businesses from distributing non-biodegradable single-use plastic checkout bags to customers at point of sale beginning January 1, 2012.

Requires businesses to collect a five cent offset fee for each non-disposable checkout bag provided to customers, effective January 1, 2011.

Mandates businesses remit 60 percent of collected offset fees monthly to the Department of Health, with fees deposited into the general fund.

Exempts certain products including plastic laundry bags provided by hotels and plastic bags containing fish or live animals from pet stores.

Establishes penalties for violations and preempts county authority to regulate disposable checkout bags.