A new California bag law went into effect on Jan. 1, 2026,

changing the types of bags stores can provide at checkout. Senate Bill 1053 restricts point-of-sale carryout bags and is intended to reduce plastic bag waste. California had already banned single-use plastic bags at checkout counters years ago.

However, the earlier law did not create the intended reduction in plastic bag use. Some businesses began offering thicker plastic bags that were considered reusable. According to the Trash Flash, the tonnage of grocery and merchandise bags disposed of by Californians increased by 47% between 2014 and 2022.

The New California Bag Law

responds to that issue by no longer allowing those thicker plastic carryout bags. Stores may now provide customers with recycled paper carryout bags for a minimum charge of 10 cents per bag.

For Ventura residents, the most practical solution is simple: bring reusable bags when shopping. Reusable grocery bags are affordable, strong and often hold more than paper bags. Keeping a few in your car or near the door can make it easier to remember them before heading into the store.

Reducing Plastic Bag Use Matters

Plastic has long-term environmental impacts. Plastic does not biodegrade the way organic materials do. Instead, it breaks into smaller and smaller pieces over time, creating microplastics and nanoplastics that can pollute the environment. Plastic bags and bottles are part of a larger global plastic pollution problem affecting oceans and waterways.

This law also connects to broader waste-reduction efforts across Ventura County. Proper sorting, recycling and Food Waste Recycling all depend on keeping the wrong materials out of the wrong places. Plastic bags should not be placed in recycling carts, and they do not belong in organics carts.

As your Ventura County Trash Hauler, E.J. Harrison encourages residents to make small daily changes that reduce waste and support cleaner communities. Bringing reusable bags is one of the easiest steps to take.

Review local recycling and trash guidelines at ejharrison.com/guidelines.