HB346 Alabama 2019 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Nathaniel LedbetterRepresentative
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2019
Title: Plastic bag bans, prohibiting local governments from banning plastic bags
Summary: HB 346 would prevent local Alabama governments from banning plastic bags or charging fees for bags and similar containers.
What This Bill Does
If enacted, the bill would stop counties, cities, and other local government entities from adopting or enforcing ordinances that regulate, prohibit, or tax auxiliary containers like plastic bags. It defines auxiliary containers and restricts local regulations on their use, with specific exceptions. It also sets an effective date: the law would take effect on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects
Local units of government (counties, municipalities, local taxing entities): cannot ban, regulate, or tax auxiliary containers such as plastic bags; their existing bag bans would be prohibited, with limited allowed activities described in the bill.
Retailers and consumers: bag usage would not be restricted or taxed by local governments, and recycling options remain in place due to allowed exceptions.

Key Provisions
Section 1 defines auxiliary container (various bags and packaging used to transport or protect items) and local unit of government (counties, municipalities, local subdivisions).
Section 2 prohibits local governments from adopting or enforcing ordinances that regulate, prohibit, or impose fees or taxes on auxiliary containers.
Section 3 provides exceptions: (a) curbside recycling programs, (b) designated residential or commercial recycling locations, and (c) commercial recycling programs; it also clarifies that Section 2 does not prohibit littering prohibitions or the use of auxiliary containers on government property.
Section 4 states the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following its passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Plastic Bag Ban