KCBS and KPIX TV
http://cbs5.com

Posted on March 28, 2007

Some SF Shoppers, Richmond
Mayor Like Bag Ban

(CBS 5 / KCBS) SAN FRANCISCO As word of San Francisco's newly enacted plastic grocery bag ban spreads, there’s a rush for fabric bags sold by some supermarkets. Many grocery shoppers in San Francisco said Wednesday that they already use an alternative to plastic.

Whole Foods shopper Joan Eckert said she has been using a reusable bag for years and doesn't understand why anyone still uses plastic, though some chains automatically bag purchases in plastic without asking. "Safeway gives you a dirty look if you ask for a paper bag instead of a plastic bag. That's not right," said Eckert.

The California Grocers Association is a critic of the ban and said the law will cost its members money. Representative Kristin Power said many shoppers prefer plastic bags and use them at home.

Meanwhile, Richmond Mayor Gayle McLaughlin is giving thumbs up to the San Francisco ban. McLaughlin, a member of the Green Party, said the city of Richmond is now planning to follow San Francisco’s plastic bag ban lead. [emphasis added]