Plastic shopping bags banned at California grocery stores after Newsom signs law

California is set to phase out plastic shopping bags entirely by 2026, following a new law signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. This new legislation builds on the state’s existing ban on thin plastic bags, which has been in place for years. Previously, shoppers could still buy thicker plastic bags, marketed as reusable and recyclable, but the new law eliminates that option.

Starting in 2026, shoppers who don’t bring their own bags will be offered only paper bags at checkout. State Sen. Catherine Blakespear, a supporter of the bill, cited a study revealing that plastic bag waste per person in California increased from 8 pounds per year in 2004 to 11 pounds in 2021. According to Blakespear, the earlier ban didn’t significantly reduce overall plastic use, prompting the need for this stricter measure. She emphasized the environmental harm caused by plastic waste, stating, “We are literally choking our planet with plastic.”

Environmental group Oceana praised Newsom for the decision, noting that it will help protect California’s coastline, marine life, and communities. Christy Leavitt, Oceana’s plastics campaign director, called the ban a significant step in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.

California joins twelve other states that have enacted similar statewide bans. In addition, hundreds of cities across 28 states have implemented their own plastic bag restrictions. California first passed a statewide plastic bag ban in 2014, which was later confirmed by voters in a 2016 referendum. The California Public Interest Research Group welcomed the new law, saying it finally fulfills the original intent to reduce plastic pollution.

“Plastic bags pollute our environment and break down into harmful microplastics,” said Jenn Engstrom, director of the group. “This updated law ensures that plastic bags are removed from checkout lanes once and for all.”

As mayor of San Francisco in 2007, Newsom signed the nation’s first-ever plastic bag ban, and with this new law, he continues to position California as a leader in environmental sustainability.