MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (AP) - Middletown is the latest Rhode Island community to consider a ban on plastic bags.
The Newport Daily News reports the town council will receive a proposal Monday to prohibit retailers from providing single-use plastic bags to customers.
Barrington became the first community in the state to ban plastic bags in 2013. Middletown’s neighbor, Newport, is also exploring a ban.
David McLaughlin of Clean Ocean Access says plastic bags cause problems in the environment.
A draft ordinance would allow exceptions for bags used for produce, nuts and some other items as long as the bags can be recycled at the store. Some other kinds would be exempt, including dry cleaning bags.
The council is expected to schedule public hearings to allow residents to weigh in.
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