ISSAQUAH, Wash. - Another Washington state city has banned plastic bags. The Issaquah City Council joins Bainbridge Island, Bellingham, Edmonds, Mukilteo and Seattle in outlawing plastic bags.
Issaquah€™s plastic bag ban will go into effect for most retailers next March, the Issaquah Press reports. The council included a nickel paper bag fee in the ordinance, which passed in a 5-2 vote.
Opponents of the bill say such bans aren€™t as environmentally friendly as supporters make out. "There€™s got to be better uses of your time and resources than legislation that hurts working families and small businesses while doing nothing for the environment," said Ken Holmes, marketing director for American Plastics Manufacturing.
The ordinance has several exceptions, including allowing dry cleaners, newspapers, and restaurants, which already have to use compostable takeout containers, to continue using plastic bags. The ban also has a staggered compliance schedule: March 1, 2013, for stores with 7,500 square feet or more, and March 1, 2014. for smaller retailers.
Local officials also put in language that would let outdoor festivals apply for exceptions. "This isn€™t Seattle€™s bill. This isn€™t anybody else€™s bill. This is Issaquah€™s bill," said Council President Tola Marts.