Bozeman city officials and grocery stores are finalizing a ballot initiative to ban single-use plastics, in response to overwhelming voter support. The Bozeman Plastics Ordinance, passed with 63% approval, prohibits single-use plastic bags, styrofoam containers, and plastic straws except upon request. This move reflects a growing trend towards environmental sustainability and raises questions about its impact on the local economy and legal challenges.
Banning single-use plastics will take effect on May 1, 2025. The city will provide educational materials on reusable options and enforce the ordinance with fines starting at $1,000. The ordinance’s broad terms have sparked concerns about potential legal disputes, with some questioning its enforceability under Montana state law.
Takami Clark, Bozeman city spokesperson, stated the city is developing strategies for implementation and outreach. Travis Frandsen, president of Town and Country Foods, expressed plans to transition away from plastics post-holidays, noting the cost and efficiency challenges of alternatives. The Bozeman Co-op, which has eliminated plastic bags for over a decade, supports this initiative as a model for others.
Despite widespread support, the ban faces criticism from figures like Chris Cargill of the Mountain States Policy Center, who called the initiative “legally fraught,” citing excessive civil penalties and potential risks to landlords. Cargill suggested that the ban might increase other waste forms, referencing a study showing a surge in trash bag sales following similar bans.
John Meyer of Cottonwood Environmental Law Center dismissed criticisms, highlighting the initiative’s broad language as a strategic choice to offer Bozeman flexibility in enforcement. The initiative’s substantial passage margin suggests legal opposition may be minimal, bolstering future environmental efforts. The initiative, according to Meyer, symbolizes hope for environmental advocates and sets a precedent for other cities.
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