Dallas Bag Fees Go Into Effect Amidst Some Confusion
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DALLAS (CBS 11 NEWS) - The question in Dallas is no longer simply paper or plastic.
Starting Thursday for every single-use bag, both plastic and paper, customers will be charged a five-cent environmental fee. City officials hope the new bag rules will encourage people to use reusable bags.
"I just thought they were teasing me because they said it was five cents," said Stan Aldridge when the cashier at Fuel City in Dallas told him she had to charge him for his plastic bag.
While surprised Aldridge said he doesn't mind the extra fee. Other shoppers however do.
"I think it's the most stupid thing in the world," said James Dorrough of Dallas. "It's just another way for the government to nickel and dime everybody.
City Councilman Dwaine Caraway led the push for the city's new bag rules, hoping it will reduce litter.
However, many retailers say the rules, even now, remain confusing and not just for customers.
Gary Huddleston with Kroger said, "We think many retailers will be surprised when the code enforcement folks go out talking about how they may be violating the ordinance."
To be in compliance, Kroger made new thicker plastic bags just for its Dallas stores.
Central Market posted signs in its parking lot letting its customers know its paper bags are considered reusable and free of charge.
Paper bags with handles found at stores like Central Market and Whole Foods are not subject to the $.05 fee, while the paper bags at Kroger and other supermarkets will cost shoppers five cents.
"Change is uncomfortable," said Caraway. "It's unpopular but you have to do what's best in the long-run."
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