The bill addresses the issue of littering and the environmental impact of single-use plastic bags in Washington State. It establishes new penalties for littering, increasing the severity of infractions and misdemeanors related to littering, and introduces a restitution payment for cleanup costs. Specifically, the bill amends RCW 70A.200.060 to classify littering less than or equal to one cubic foot as a class 2 civil infraction, while littering greater than one cubic foot but less than ten cubic yards is classified as a misdemeanor. Additionally, it imposes a gross misdemeanor classification for littering more than ten cubic yards, with restitution payments set at four times the cleanup cost for natural resource infractions and misdemeanors, and two times for gross misdemeanors.

Furthermore, the bill modifies regulations regarding the provision of plastic and paper carryout bags by retail establishments. It delays the requirement for thicker reusable plastic bags until 2028 and mandates a pass-through charge for compliant bags. Notably, a new penalty is introduced for the sale of thicker plastic bags, which will be directed to the waste reduction, recycling, and litter control account. The bill aims to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable practices by encouraging the use of reusable bags and imposing financial disincentives for littering and the use of single-use plastics.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.200.060
Substitute Bill: 70A.200.060
Engrossed Substitute: 70A.200.060
Bill as Passed Legislature: 70A.200.060
Session Law: 70A.200.060