Beginning Jan. 1, 2023, Colorado’s Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (House Bill 21 -1162) requires most stores with three or more locations in Colorado to collect a carryout bag fee. Stores, including but not limited to grocery stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, liquor stores and drug stores, will charge a 10-cent fee for each single-use plastic and paper bag provided to customers at the point of sale.

On and after June 1, 2024, stores will only provide recycled paper carryout bags to customers at the point of sale at a fee of 10 cents per bag. Stores will retain 40% of the bag fee to cover compliance and administration costs, and 60% will be remitted to the municipality or county where they are located, to cover administrative and enforcement costs and to fund recycling and sustainability efforts.

The carryout bag fee does not apply to customers who provide proof of participation in a federal or state food assistance program. Materials used in the packaging or manufacturing of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices or dietary supplements are also exempt.

Reducing single-use carryout bags will help prevent litter, reduce waste and protect Colorado’s rivers and lakes. Customers can avoid paying the bag fee by bringing in their own reusable carryout bags.

For FAQs and other details on the bill, visit Tax.Colorado.Gov/Carryout-Bag-Fee.