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Committee approves transfer of paper bag-fee funds after debate on program scope and state rules
Summary
Legislators approved a resolution to transfer accumulated paper bag-fee revenue into an active reusable-bag program, but the measure drew a 4–1 vote and debate about program effectiveness, allowable uses under state law and whether to push Albany for broader authority.
The Planning, Energy and Environmental Quality Committee voted 4–1 on Aug. 11 to move funds collected under New York’s Bag Waste Reduction Act and Tompkins County Local Law No. 6 of 2019 into an active reusable-bag program and associated administrative costs.
Amanda moved the measure and Veronica seconded; Greg recorded the sole vote in opposition and said he wanted a larger discussion with the full legislature about alternative uses. Rich, Amanda, Veronica and one other committee member voted in favor.
"The New York State Bag Waste Reduction Act paired with the local law number 6 of 2019 allowed or established the nickel fee for paper carry out bags," Amanda said while introducing the resolution. She explained that a portion of the nickel returns to the county — historically…
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