California's New Plastic Bag Ban: What You Need to Know 

California has taken another bold step in environmental protection by becoming the first state in the US to completely ban all plastic bags—including recyclable and thicker reusable versions—from grocery store checkouts. Take-out containers may be next. 

What the Law Says 

• Signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 22, 2024, Senate Bill 1053 closes the loophole that previously allowed thicker “reusable” plastic bags—even after California’s original 2014 ban.
• Unlike previous rules, all plastic shopping bags are now prohibited at grocery store checkouts—regardless of thickness or claimed recyclability. 

When It Takes Effect 

• The ban takes effect on January 1, 2026.
• After that date, stores will only be allowed to offer recycled paper bags, and customers must bring their own reusable bags or pay for paper alternatives. 

Why California Took This Step 

• Data from CalRecycle shows that plastic bag waste per person rose from 8 pounds in 2004 to 11 pounds in 2021, despite earlier bans.
• The thicker bags allowed under the 2014 law were rarely reused or recycled, leading to continued environmental harm. SB 1053 is designed to fulfill the original intent of reducing plastic packaging and waste. 

What It Means for Shoppers 

• At checkout, customers won’t be asked “paper or plastic.” The only option will be a recycled paper bag (for a fee) or to bring a reusable bag.
• Exemptions apply for bags used for produce, prescriptions, or protecting fragile items, and customers using SNAP benefits remain exempt from bag fees.