Zero Waste Washington works to help pass laws at the city, county and state level to ensure that permanent programs are in place to prevent and reduce waste.
Here are some examples laws we have helped pass.
Reusable Bag Ordinances and Statewide Law
Over the course of 10 years, we helped get reusable bag ordinances at the local level in Washington. These laws banned thin carry-home plastic bags and require a pass- through charge of 5, 8 or 10 cents for paper bags and durable, reusable plastic bags. The goal of the charge is to incentivize people to bring their own bags. After the work at the local level, finally, a statewide law passed and was signed into law on March 25, 2020. See the Legislative Work page for a factsheet about bag ordinances and the statewide bag bill.
We assist community members and provide technical assistance (and model ordinances) to city and county staff.
Statewide laws
Along with partners, Zero Waste Washington works hard to promote bills in each legislative session. For more information and current bill status: click here.
