WA SB5965

Prohibits retail establishments from providing single-use plastic carryout bags and reusable carryout bags made of film plastic to customers, effective January 1, 2028

Increases the mandatory pass-through charge for compliant paper carryout bags from 8 cents to 20 cents for bags with capacity of 882 cubic inches or greater

Requires compliant paper bags to contain at least 40% postconsumer recycled content, 40% nonwood renewable fiber (wheat straw from North America), or a combination totaling 40%

Exempts customers using WIC vouchers or state-administered cash and food assistance program benefits from paying the pass-through charge

Establishes civil penalties for violations: up to $250 per violation for retail establishments, and escalating penalties for manufacturers/distributors from $2,000 (first violation) to $10,000 (third and subsequent violations) per day