SB244 Alabama 2019 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Steve LivingstonSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2019

Title

Plastic bag bans, prohibiting local governments from banning plastic bags

Summary

SB 244 would stop local governments from banning plastic grocery bags or applying fees to bags and similar containers.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, local governments could not ban, regulate, or charge for auxiliary containers like bags. It defines auxiliary containers and restricts bans or fees on them. There are allowed exceptions for recycling programs and for littering laws or use of containers on government property. The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after it passes and is signed by the Governor.

Who It Affects

• Local units of government (counties and municipalities): cannot ban or tax auxiliary containers and cannot regulate their use or disposal.
• Retailers and merchants: no local bag bans or bag fees required by local governments; packaging rules would be limited by this act.
• Residents/consumers: would not face local bans or local bag fees for plastic grocery bags or similar containers.

Key Provisions

• Section 2: Local governments may not adopt or enforce ordinances that regulate, prohibit, or impose a fee, charge, or tax on auxiliary containers.
• Definition of auxiliary container includes bags and other packaging made from various materials and designed to transport or protect merchandise or food.
• Section 3: Exceptions allowing curbside recycling programs, designated recycling locations, and commercial recycling programs; Section 2 does not apply to prohibitions on littering or to the use of auxiliary containers on government property.
• Section 4: Effective date is the first day of the third month following 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