PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — The Providence mayor has vetoed a measure to reduce single-use plastic bags.
Mayor Jorge Elorza vetoed an ordinance Monday, which would require retailers to charge at least 10 cents for replacement paper bags or more durable plastic bags.
He says that while he applauds the environmental effort, he is requesting more “community engagement,” before passing the ordinance.
Elorza is citing a letter from the Racial and Environmental Justice Committee that mentions poorer neighborhoods have a harder time affording plastic bag alternatives.
The bill exempts dry cleaning bags, laundry bags and frozen food bags from the fee.
Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan proposed the ordinance in February. She estimates more than 95 million plastic bags are used annually in Providence.
