January 14, 2020 – Matt Seaholm, Executive Director of the American Progressive Bag Alliance, released the following statement after the New Jersey Legislature ended its session without passing a proposal to ban 100-percent recyclable, highly reused, U.S.-made plastic grocery bags.

“We are thankful the Assembly decided against taking up the misguided grocery bag ban bill. The Senate bill was bad for consumers, retailers, and would have killed New Jersey manufacturing jobs. On Day 1 of the new session, we stand ready to work with legislators on a compromise that can work for everyone. If all stakeholders are at the table, there are ways to achieve sustainability goals while also making sure shoppers have affordable grocery bags that are made in the U.S., rather than overseas.”

About the American Progressive Bag Alliance (APBA)

The American Progressive Bag Alliance (APBA) represents the U.S. plastic bag manufacturing and recycling industry, which employs thousands of workers across the United States. Founded in 2005, the APBA proactively promotes product lines and leads numerous public policy initiatives that serve as the frontline defense against plastic bag bans and taxes nationwide. With the support of the industry’s workers, the APBA promotes American-made plastic products that are the smartest, most environmentally-friendly choice at the checkout counter for both retailers and consumers.