San Luis Obispo County County Integrated Waste Management Authority had a 'super vote' for the first time in their history and a super majority of board members passed one of the first countywide plastic bag bans in the U.S. This one covers both the unincorporated areas and all incorporated cities in the county. The ordinance bans 'single-use/disposable checkout bags' and puts a 10 cent fee on paper bags, which is a great way to help people remember their reusable bags. There was a wide variety of support from environmental groups such as Surfrider Foundation, SLO Coastkeeper and Sierra Club along with business interests such as the California Grocers Association, SLO Chamber of Commerce and the local waste hauler.
It was a six year process with lots of research, public input and public hearings. Late in the process opposition and special interest groups tried some scare tactics in a last ditch effort to save the plastic bag. Fortunately the board saw through their veiled threats and questionable claims. Congrats to the Surfrider Foundation SLO Chapter, all of the activists and everyone else involved with this important coastal victory!
The bag monster speaks!
