Where it stands as of Mon, Apr 6
The Advisory Committee voted 0-7 to recommend disapproval of Article 34, a citizen petition to ban non-reusable plastic checkout bags, citing concerns that it was drafted as an unenforceable advisory measure ahead of Annual Town Meeting.
Votes
| Date | Board | Motion | Result | Video |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advisory Committee | Recommend approval of Article 34 (Citizen Petition - Ban Non-Reusable Plastic Bags) Plastic bag ban citizen petition | Failed0-7 | 58:37 |
Every time it came up newest first
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Article 34: Citizen petition to ban non-reusable plastic checkout bags
The committee reviewed Article 34, a citizen petition submitted by local youth seeking to adopt a town general bylaw prohibiting non-reusable plastic checkout bags in certain retail situations effective January 1, 2027. While commending the students for their civic engagement, members noted the article was drafted as an advisory measure rather than an actionable, enforceable bylaw with clear definitions, penalties, and enforcement mechanisms.
- Proposal targets retail checkout bags while exempting produce, meat, newspaper, and biodegradable bags.
- Members pointed out the town has very few retail businesses that use plastic checkout bags, with Costco already not using them.
- Town counsel and committee members noted the petition text lacked formal bylaw language and enforcement structure.
- The committee voted unanimously against recommending the article as written.
Outcome: Failed 0-7; committee recommends disapproval.
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Plastic bag ban citizen petition update
The conservation agent reported that high school student sponsors of a proposed citizen petition banning plastic bags have withdrawn it from the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. The sponsors felt underprepared and plan to refine the proposal and reintroduce it for the fall Town Meeting.
- Petition withdrawn from the Annual Town Meeting warrant.
- Organizers plan to bring an updated petition to the fall Town Meeting.
Outcome: Informational update; no action taken.