Watch CBS News

Pennsylvania Lawmaker Wants To Tax Plastic Bags

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) -- A state lawmaker wants to tax plastic bags.

Pennsylvania State Senator Daylin Leach's, D-Montgomery/Delaware, proposed legislation SB 590 that would place a 2-cent tax on plastic bags provided to consumers by retailers.

If passed, the tax will likely drive Pennsylvania consumers to purchase cheap, fabric-like reusable bags. But for some shoppers plastic is a greener choice for them.

"We use for our pets to clean up after our pets, so we actually are recycling them and giving a second use after we take them home from the store," Lorie Berrick, from Green Tree, said.

Still, state lawmakers believe this bag tax will have a positive impact on the environment. But will it give Pennsylvanians an incentive to make the more environmentally-conscious choice?

"No, They're gonna deal with it same way the dealt with the drink tax," Liam Macik, of Dormont, said. "People are gonna use the plastic bags its just the way that's gonna happen."

State Sen. Jim Ferlo is also supporting this bill, but he has not yet returned KDKA-TV's calls. This bill has now been referred to the finance committee. So far, no hearings have been set.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.