Montgomery Township Joins Growing Chorus In Rejecting Plastic Bags

MONTGOMERY TOWNSHIP, PA — Montgomery Township became the most recent muncipality in the region to ban single use plastics late last month, joining a growing chorus rejecting needless environmental waste.

The proposal, under consideration for months, will go into effect on April 22, 2024. The ban covers bags and styrofoam containers at all retail, restaurants, and point-of-sale locations within the township.

"Montgomery Township is actively taking steps toward reducing our environmental footprint and striving for a more sustainable community," the township said in a statement.

Montgomery Township joins Upper Merion, Lower Merion, and Upper Moreland as communities that passed bans within the past several months.

In 2018, nearby Narberth became the first Pennsylvania municipality to pass the measure. With the latest measures passed, there are now 21 municipalities statewide that have enacted bans. Towns nearby like Phoenixville, and major cities like Pittsburgh, are also weighing bans.

Paper bags will replace plastic, and reusable bags will be promoted.

Violators will first receive a written warnings, then progressive fines of up to $200 if they fail to comply. Businesses are required to post signage informing customers of the new change by Nov. 25 at the latest.