End Plastic Bag Pollution Bill (Law'd)

[Јas]

This is a rather interesting idea, but I do want to press the issue that paper bags honestly aren't that much better.  They decompose, sure, but still take up resources and space in landfills.

Anyone interested in adding paper bags to the bill?

I can't speak to paper bags unfortunately. The use of paper bags is not something I've had any real experience of; nor can I speak to the environmental impact of same.

And a clarification as to what plastic bags we're talking about?  Are we talking about those at grocery stores to carry home our purchases?  Ziploc bags we use to take our lunches to work?

My primary target would be those used to carry groceries but generally to encourage movement away from disposable plastic bag use in favour of heavy reusable bags or other alternatives.

I'm quite willing to consider exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

[Јas]

I don't think giving the Prez a blank check to spend the money at will is a good idea. It might even violate the concept of separation of powers, assuming such a concept is embraced by Atlasia's fundamental document. Why not use the money to subsidize alternative fuels or something? 

I'm not really that pushed on what the funds should be used for preferably towards something environmentally positive or else to general government funds. (I'd considered adding a section asking that the use of the funds be reported on periodically as a condition for continued receipt of the same funds.) Feel free to submit something for consideration.

[Јas]

I'd like to offer an amendment
End Plastic Bag Pollution Bill

1. A levy of $0.10 shall be made on the sale of all plastic bags within the Republic of Atlasia to take effect 6 months after the ratification of this Act.

2. For the purposes of this legislation, 'plastic bag’ shall be defined in as a bag 'made wholly or mostly of plastic'.

3. Any and all funds raised from this levy shall be directed towards an 'environmental fund'.

4. The expenditure of monies from the environmental fund shall be made on projects dedicated to improving the environment of Atlasia as may be approved by the President of Atlasia, or such persons as he may appoint to do same.

I'll vote against the reduction to $0.10, it's probably too nominal a charge.
I'm open to extending the timeframe for introduction by friendly amendment, subject to some reasoning being offered as to why it would be preferable.
Not sure what the 3^rd amendment is trying to address.

[Јas]

Nay

[Јas]

Nay

[Јas]

Aye

[Јas]