Maine Statewide Rule
Maine Statewide Single-Use Plastic Bag Ban Law
Key Facts
- Effective July 2021
- Effective July 2021
- Statute
- Statute: 38 MRS section 1611
- Paper Bag Fee
- Paper bag fee 5 cents minimum
- Stricter Local Rules
- Stricter local rules allowed
- Dep Enforces Compliance
- DEP enforces compliance
Summary
Maine's LD 1532 enacted a statewide ban on single-use plastic carryout bags, codified in 38 MRS section 1611, with retailer fee requirements for paper alternatives.
2. Prohibition; exemptions. This subsection governs the use of single-use carry-out bags. A. Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, beginning April 22, 2020, a retail establishment may not provide a single-use carry-out bag to a customer at the point of sale or otherwise make single-use carry-out bags available to customers.
Full Breakdown
LD 1532, signed in 2019 and operative since July 1, 2021 (after a COVID-related delay), prohibits retail establishments from providing single-use plastic carryout bags at point of sale, codified at 38 MRS section 1611. Stores may offer recycled paper bags or reusable bags at a minimum 5-cent fee that the retailer retains. Restaurant takeout, dry cleaning, and produce bags have specific exemptions. Municipalities retain authority to adopt stricter local bag ordinances. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection enforces compliance and provides retailer guidance.
Violations & Penalties
Violations are subject to civil penalties under 38 MRS section 349, with warnings preceding fines that can reach $500 per day for ongoing noncompliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are plastic shopping bags banned everywhere in Maine?
Do Maine retailers have to charge for paper bags?
Sources
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