HONOLULU — Honolulu businesses have begun charging at least 15 cents for each bag provided to customers at checkout.
A city bill signed into law last year requiring businesses to charge customers for compostable, recyclable paper or reusable carryout bags went into effect Sunday, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported.
Honolulu has banned plastic bags since July 2015, but businesses were allowed to give out thicker plastic bags considered reusable.
The new law will end that exemption in January 2020, prohibiting businesses from providing plastic bags that have a thickness of 0.001 inches or less.
The new bag fee will not apply to the plastic bags that grocery stores supply for fruits, vegetables and meats. Other bags are exempt, including those for dry cleaning, home newspaper delivery and prescription medications.
Honolulu resident Leann Martin said she has grown accustomed to bringing her own bags to stores and keeps a supply in her car.
“I have no problem at all with it; I have my own collection of bags,” Martin said. “I just think it becomes a habit. I don’t mind paying 15 cents either. I think it’s good for the environment, and it’s not hard to do, so why not?”
The city sent out notices to more than 10,000 businesses last year, informing them of the change to bag rules, the city Department of Environmental Services said. Another reminder was sent in April. Businesses found in violation of the law could be fined $100 to $1,000 for each day the violation continues.