New York Gov. Cuomo Signs Bill Banning Single-Use Plastic Bags

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New Yorkers use 23 billion plastic bags annually. Approximately 50 percent of single-use plastic bags become litter in our environment, according to nationwide studies.

Banning single-use plastic bags is good for the environment

The Governor strongly believes that the ban will reduce pollution and help prevent climate change.

In a statement, Cuomo said, “You see plastic bags hanging in trees, blowing down the streets, in landfills and in our waterways, and there is no doubt they are doing tremendous damage.”

“Twelve million barrels of oil are used to make the plastic bags we use every year and by 2050 there will be more plastic by weight in the oceans than fish. We need to stop using plastic bags, and today we’re putting an end to this blight on our environment,” he added.

On the other hand, Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, commented, “Once again New York is demonstrating leadership with a common sense reform to create lasting change and ensure a greener future for our planet.”

She noted that New York has been in the forefront of efforts to protect our environment by implementing bold actions to address climate change. The state recently made significant investments in clean energy.