Overview
- Council approved the measure 10–5 with two members absent, and a spokesperson said Kendra Brooks would support it if it returns for another vote.
- Stores would charge at least 10 cents per nonreusable paper bag, keep the fee, and post customer notices within 60 days of the law taking effect, with no charge for deliveries, drive-thrus, or takeout orders.
- Mayor Cherelle Parker has not said if she will sign the bill, and a veto would be her first; Council would have 10 days to consider an override if she rejects it.
- Carlton Williams of the Parker administration warned the policy could burden low-income residents and mom-and-pop retailers, and Councilmember Anthony Phillips cited looming SNAP disruptions in voting no.
- Supporters, including sponsor Mark Squilla and PennEnvironment, frame the fee as a behavioral tool to cut waste and litter, noting earlier attempts included a 2019 fee that was removed and a later bill that died by pocket veto.