Elgin Moves Forward With Ban on Single-Use Plastic Checkout Bags at Large Retailers
The Elgin City Council has given preliminary approval to an ordinance that would prohibit large retailers from distributing single-use plastic checkout bags, positioning the city among the few municipalities in Illinois pursuing a full ban rather than a usage fee.
If the measure receives final approval at the council’s March 11 meeting, the ordinance would take effect in June 2027. City officials say the extended timeline is intended to provide retailers and residents with adequate time to prepare for the transition, while allowing the city to conduct community outreach and education efforts.
Mayor David Kaptain noted that Elgin has previously taken early action on local policy issues ahead of broader state measures. He suggested that local initiatives often serve as a precursor to wider legislative change.
Under the proposed ordinance, approximately 42 large retailers in Elgin would be subject to the ban. Restaurants, gas station convenience stores, and smaller retail businesses — defined as those operating 12 or fewer locations within Illinois and employing 250 or fewer full-time staff — would be exempt.
Retailers affected by the ban would be permitted to offer recycled paper bags at a charge of 10 cents per bag, with the fee retained by the retailer. Customers participating in SNAP, WIC, and similar assistance programs would not be required to pay the charge. The paper bag fee would not be subject to sales tax.
Retail Concerns and Economic Considerations
Several local retail representatives voiced concerns during the council meeting. Some warned that a city-level ban could put Elgin businesses at a competitive disadvantage if neighboring communities do not implement similar measures. They argued that customers may choose to shop in nearby towns where plastic bags remain available.
A small number of council members also expressed reservations, suggesting that plastic reduction policies may be more effective if implemented at the state or federal level to ensure consistency across jurisdictions.
Environmental Motivation
Supporters of the ordinance emphasized environmental concerns, particularly the persistence of plastic bags in waterways and public spaces. Community advocates reported that plastic bags are frequently found during river and neighborhood clean-up efforts, contributing to litter and long-term waste management challenges.
While some Illinois municipalities have adopted plastic bag fees to discourage usage, only a limited number have enacted outright bans. If finalized, Elgin would join that small group.
City officials indicated that enforcement would be overseen by the neighborhood services department. During the initial implementation phase, the focus would be on education and voluntary compliance rather than punitive action.
As communities across the United States continue to explore ways to reduce plastic waste, Elgin’s proposal reflects the broader debate balancing environmental priorities, business impacts, and consumer convenience.
