Some concerned that a nationwide paper and reusable bag shortage could pose an issue for a MD bill on the table

MARYLAND- With the Plastic Bag Reduction Act still on the table, some Marylanders are raising concerns.

Some arguing the nationwide shortage of paper and reusable bags could be a burden to businesses.

“So, the shortage means that retailers can’t get the bags, if they can get the bags they are extraordinarily expensive,” Delegate Christopher Adams, said.

If the bill is passed, businesses would replace thin plastic bags at the checkout counter with paper or reusable.

The Communications and public Affairs Manager for ACME Markets said plastic bags are cheaper and are able to be manufactured a little easier.

“You may see paper bags not be as readily available as they used to be, you may also see a charge, a small charge or fee to help defray some of that extra costs,” Ward said.

She added that when it comes to getting reusable bags the pandemic hasn’t made it easier.

“Reusable bags with the pandemic have been a little bit harder to get in just because of warehouse delays and stuff like that,” Ward said.

Meanwhile, MOM’s Organic Market, which has 21 stores in the country, said their stores haven’t used plastic bags for years.

“As far as the cost difference, it is a few cents, pennies more to go from a plastic bag to a paper bag, we made the change in 2005, since 2005 we’ve grown exponentially,” Alexandra DySard, said.

The Environmental and Partnership Manager for MOM’s, who is in favor of the bill, said their stores haven’t experienced huge disruptions with getting paper bags.

DySard added that businesses may see some changes in operation if the bill is passed, but in the long run it will be worth it.

“Maybe you’re saving a penny at your store, but somebody else is paying to clean that up, to clean up the neighborhoods. to lift the neighborhoods back up,” DySard  said.

Ward also told me that for their stores, plastic bags are preferred during the pandemic because of the safety issue, because they know the plastic bags are coming straight from the box.

And while there are no set plans in place just yet, Ward said they are encouraging the public to bring their reusable bags.

The Environmental and Partnership Manger of MOM’s Organic Market said at their stores customers are already bringing their own bags.

She also said that if the demand goes up for paper bags usually the cost gets driven down because there’s more options of people making them.