Governor Andrew Cuomo is proposing that plastic bags be banned at stores throughout New York State.
"The blight of plastic bags takes a devastating toll on our streets, our water and our natural resources, and we need to take action to protect our environment," Cuomo said in a statement.
A task force found the ban would significantly reduce waste and environmental impacts. It also estimates that New York City alone would save $12.5 million on disposal costs.
"As the old proverb goes: 'We did not inherit the earth, we are merely borrowing it from our children,' and with this action we are helping to leave a stronger, cleaner and greener New York for all," Cuomo said.
Ten cities, towns and villages in the state have already taken action to ban bags. Other municipalities have taken other steps to limit the use of bags, such as fees for people that use them.
In New York City, Mayor de Blasio is a supporter of banning plastic bags. Last year, he signed a law that would have placed a 5-cent fee on paper and plastic bags. However, Cuomo and the state legislature blocked the law from going into effect.
Throughout the state, New Yorkers use 23 billion plastic bags every year. The governor said that contributes to pollution both on land and in the ocean because the bags don’t biodegrade.
Photo Credit: Getty Images