As of today, Austin’s ban on the bags normally used in grocery stores has begun.

The Texas capital’s ban affects thin plastic and paper bags with handles. The Austin City Council approved the ordnance citing environmental concerns.

The concerns stem from the council’s belief that the bags used by grocers are only single use and tend to become only litter and waste.

Under the ban retailers would only be allowed to use thicker plastic bags that city council officials consider to be reusable.

These bags would likely turn into added cost to consumers.

There are a few exceptions to the ban including dry-cleaning, newspaper delivery, and take-out food bags.

Violating the ban is a class C misdemeanor punishable by daily fines up to $2,000.

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