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From the Law of Unintended Consequences File: Grocery Bag Bans

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mwkruse
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Social Science Research Network: Grocery Bag Bans and Foodborne Illness

Jonathan Klick – University of Pennsylvania Law School; Erasmus School of Law; PERC – Property and Environment Research Center

Joshua D. Wright – George Mason University School of Law

November 2, 2012

Abstract:    
Recently, many jurisdictions have implemented bans or imposed taxes upon plastic grocery bags on environmental grounds. San Francisco County was the first major US jurisdiction to enact such a regulation, implementing a ban in 2007. There is evidence, however, that reusable grocery bags, a common substitute for plastic bags, contain potentially harmful bacteria. We examine emergency room admissions related to these bacteria in the wake of the San Francisco ban. We find that ER visits spiked when the ban went into effect. Relative to other counties, ER admissions increase by at least one fourth, and deaths exhibit a similar increase.

Comments

2 responses to “From the Law of Unintended Consequences File: Grocery Bag Bans”

  1. Dana Ames Avatar
    Dana Ames

    The non-woven stuff such as what is available at Wal-Mart won’t survive much, if any, washing, but it is possible to utilize fabric bags/nets that can be washed. I have a set of canvas grocery bags that I bought about 15 years ago that are just now starting to show wear. I’ve washed them plenty of times in the interim. When they finally give up the ghost, they will decompose.
    The solution to this “problem” is very simple.
    Dana

    Reply
  2. Michael W. Kruse Avatar
    Michael W. Kruse

    At the personal level it’s easy but more problematic at the public policy level. I suspect there is large segment if the population that, for many reasons, may not be diligent in washing bags. I’m not opposing the bags. Just pointing out how technology and political decisions often bite back.

    Reply

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