City Council To Vote On Bill That Puts Fee On Paper, Plastic Bags
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork)-- The City Council is expected to vote this week on a bill that would put a five cent fee on paper and plastic shopping bags.
One day after City Council Speaker Melissa Mark Viverito endorsed the controversial bill, Mayor Bill de Blasio said Friday he likes what it stands for, CBS2's Ali Bauman reported.
"One that we must stop using plastic bags for the good of our environment and two this is one of the tools proven to work around the country. We've got more work to protect the bill, but I think the City Council and administration are working very positively here on this," he said.
The bill aims to encourage shoppers to bring a reusable bag and some New Yorkers say everyone in the city needs to make that switch.
"I think it's great. They need to get rid of all the plastic-- it's hurting the environment and I think it's ruining everything," Gladys Van Putten said.
Opponents said the bill unfairly targets senior citizens and those who can't afford a fee.
"It's awful because the economy is not great right now and unless people can afford to buy a canvas shopping bag they're gonna kinda be stuck," Lynne Smals said.
The bill would exempt purchases made with food stamps, take-out, and medications at pharmacies.
