Honolulu mayor calls for less loopholes in plastic bag ban

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HONOLULU (AP) — Honolulu officials are calling for stricter enforcement of Oahu’s new plastic bag bans as environmentalists complain the law has too many loopholes.

HONOLULU (AP) — Honolulu officials are calling for stricter enforcement of Oahu’s new plastic bag bans as environmentalists complain the law has too many loopholes.

Hawaii News Now reports (https://bit.ly/1Dehfis ) that environmentalists are upset because the ban allows stores to use thicker plastic bags instead of more permanent satchels. The law, which took effect July 1, allows plastic bags if they are at least 2.25 mils thick.

Mayor Kirk Caldwell says the law man need tightening before it works perfectly, but that since it has only been in effect a few days it’s still unclear what exactly needs to be changed,

Council Chair Ernie Martin says he wants an all-out ban on plastic bags. Currently there are 11 exceptions to the law, including takeout bags for restaurants, newspaper bags and bags for produce.