Iowa Code 455B.485 preempts local governments from regulating auxiliary containers including plastic bags, foam containers, cups, and packaging.
Iowa Code section 455B.485, enacted in 2017, prohibits cities, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any ban, fee, or tax on auxiliary containers used for transporting merchandise or food. Auxiliary containers include reusable and single-use bags, cups, bottles, packages, and other containers made of plastic, paper, glass, aluminum, fiber, or similar materials. The law nullified plans by Iowa City and other municipalities to adopt plastic bag fees or bans. Manufacturers and retailers retain discretion to use any container type.
Local ordinances regulating auxiliary containers are void and unenforceable; affected parties may seek declaratory judgment.
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See how Iowa City's plastic bag rules rules stack up against other locations.
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