Richmond City Council weighs 5¢ plastic bag tax amid community concerns

Richmond City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss a proposed 5-cent fee on single-use plastic bags, a measure aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability. The initiative, if approved, would make Richmond the eleventh city in Virginia to implement such a fee, with projected revenues of approximately $400,000 in the first year, decreasing to between $100,000 and $150,000 in subsequent years as plastic bag usage declines.

Council members expressed a range of concerns, particularly regarding the financial impact on residents, especially seniors and low-income families. Many voiced apprehension that the additional costs could disproportionately affect those already struggling with the high cost of living in Richmond. Council member Trammell highlighted the concerns of seniors who rely on grocery deliveries and may face charges for bags, emphasizing the need for outreach and education to ensure that vulnerable populations are not unduly burdened.

The proposed fee would apply only to bags used at the register, exempting thicker plastic bags used for prepackaged items like meat and produce. Council members discussed the importance of providing reusable bags to residents, particularly those who may not qualify for assistance programs like SNAP and WIC. While the legislation mandates that some revenue be allocated for reusable bag distribution to these programs, there is no explicit commitment to extend this support to all seniors.

The council acknowledged the need for a robust educational campaign to inform residents about the fee and its implications. Some members suggested that the city should consider using general funds to purchase reusable bags for all residents, rather than relying solely on the revenue generated from the bag fee.

As the council deliberated, the overarching goal remained clear: to reduce plastic waste and promote a cleaner environment while balancing the financial realities faced by Richmond's residents. The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring that environmental initiatives do not inadvertently create additional hardships for the city's most vulnerable populations. The council plans to continue outreach efforts and gather more information before making a final decision on the proposed fee.