Sitka group wants plastic bag fee

A group is exploring a possible plastic and paper bag fee in Sitka.

The Sitka Sentinel reports the first Bags for Change meeting brought in about a dozen people.

Supporters say single-use grocery bags harm the environment.

A fee could range from 10 to 25 cents on paper and plastic grocery store bags.

The group is led by Mt. Edgecumbe High School teacher Christy Anderson and Michelle Putz of the Sitka Global Warming Group.

Putz said they hope to get a fee passed by assembly members or through a citizen initiative.

Fees would go toward an electricity program and the Sitka School District.

The group meets again in October.

Plastic bags are banned in Bethel, Hooper Bay and Cordova.

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