The Plastic Pollution Reduction Act (HB 21-1162) was passed by the Colorado General Assembly in 2022 to reduce the use of single-use plastics at stores and restaurants across the state. The law was implemented in phases during 2023 and 2024.
Plastic Pollution Reduction Act
What Changed and When
2023 Bag Fee
- Certain stores, which were defined in the bill, were required to charge $0.10 per bag for recycled paper or single-use plastic bags at checkout.
Bag Fee Revenue (Starting April 1, 2023)
- Stores must send 60% of collected bag fees (remitting fees) to the local jurisdiction where the store is located.
- Stores keep the remaining 40%.
- Payments are submitted quarterly.
Single Use Plastic Restrictions (Effective January 1, 2024)
- Certain stores may no longer provide single-use plastic carryout bags.
- Recycled paper bags may still be offered for $0.10 per bag.
- Some retail food establishments may not use expanded polystyrene (Styrofoam™) containers.
Exemptions
The following are exempt from the Plastic Pollution Reduction Act:
- Businesses (store or restaurant) with three or fewer locations in Colorado that are not part of a franchise
- Customers who can prove they participate in state or federal food assistance programs (no bag fee required)
- Packaging for pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and dietary supplements
Remitting Fees to Unincorporated El Paso County
Please follow the steps below for remittance:
- Fill in the attached form. Print and sign.
- Make checks payable to El Paso County
- Mail the check and completed form to:
El Paso County
ATTN: BAG FEE
3255 Akers Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80922
