Target Shoppers Face New Plastic Bag Fee in Illinois

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Shoppers at Target in Illinois may soon face a new fee for using plastic bags at checkout. The city of Highland Park has proposed a 15-cent tax on single-use plastic bags, set to take effect on July 1, 2027. This decision comes as part of a broader plan to ban plastic bags citywide by 2030.

City Council Pushes for Higher Fee

Highland Park’s City Council initially proposed a 10-cent fee in April, but Assistant City Manager Erin Jason said that wasn’t enough to change consumer behavior. After reviewing similar policies in other communities like Oak Park, the council decided to increase the fee to 15 cents, aligning with a trend seen in several states.

Public Opinion Divided on the Tax

Roughly 53% of survey respondents from a local news outlet opposed the new tax, citing concerns about the additional cost. Supporters, however, argued that the fee would promote environmental benefits by reducing plastic waste.

More States Eye Bag Bans or Taxes

While the tax is specific to Illinois, shoppers nationwide should be aware that similar measures are being considered in other states. For example, Target recently faced criticism for charging a bag fee for curbside pickup orders, sometimes charging customers $1 up front for 10 bags in certain states starting in 2023.

Existing Bans and Regulations

Currently, 12 states, including California, Colorado, and New York, have completely banned single-use plastic bags. California recently closed a loophole that allowed the use of thicker plastic bags, now illegal as of January 1. Consumers must use reusable bags or paper bags.

Expansion of Plastic Restrictions

Plastic restrictions are not limited to bags. New Jersey recently banned plastic utensils in takeout orders unless customers specifically request them. Many states are also phasing out plastic straws in favor of paper alternatives, which often disintegrate quickly.

Environmental Activism Gains Momentum

With no federal ban on plastic bags, environmental activists continue to push for national legislation. Over 200 counties and municipalities have enacted ordinances either imposing fees or banning plastic bags. These efforts reflect a growing awareness of the environmental impact of single-use plastics.

Source: Daily Wire

Written by

Connor Davis