Shoppers in Philadelphia will soon be charged 10 cents for each paper bag they use at stores, following the passage of a new city law that takes effect in January.
The legislation, introduced by City Councilman Mark Squilla, became law Thursday without Mayor Cherelle Parker’s signature after City Council passed the bill on October 30.
A ban on plastic bags enacted in 2021 has already prompted many to grow into the habit of bringing reusable bags when shopping.
“A year from now or two years from now, it will not be a second thought because they’ll be so used to doing it. It becomes part of your lifestyle,” Squilla said.
While the fee may seem small, some shoppers say it could add up quickly.
“If you need more than one bag, like five bags, that’s 50 cents,” said Billy Milhouse of Fern Rock.
“It adds up, especially for someone who’s on a fixed income, no income, students,” said Joyce Isley of North Philadelphia.
Mayor Parker expressed concern about the impact on low-income residents and communities of color during the legislative process. Squilla said he plans to work with the administration to address any unintended consequences.
“The goal is to provide reusable bags, all different types, for folks who need them, and educate businesses and consumers,” Squilla said.
He emphasized the goal is to encourage behavioral change and clean up the city, which the mayor supports.
“This will not only help us as a city, clean up our city, but we also believe it’ll reduce the waste that we have,” Squilla said.
Squilla also noted the policy could benefit businesses by reducing demand for paper bags, saving business owners money, which could in turn potentially drive down prices.
The Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association urged the city to ensure consistent enforcement of the new rule, citing uneven application of the plastic bag ban.
“So there’s currently a plastic bag ban in effect and, just anecdotally, we have seen enforcement be different kind of depending on the location in the city,” said Alex Baloga, president and CEO of the association. “Some businesses might have the ban in effect and others might not, so we want to make sure that everyone’s operating under the same rules.”
The 10-cent fee will be retained by businesses, and the city will not collect any revenue. Although Mayor Parker had the option to veto the bill, she chose not to.