Cheltenham Township’s Board of Commissioners passed an ordinance that bans the sale or distribution of single-use plastic bags. Kenny Cooper wrapped up the action’s details for WHYY.

The new law takes effect in January 2024, with retailers getting a 90-day period to realign their merchandise bagging practices.

Township officials have even reset the bar on paper-bag alternatives; they must comprise at least 40 percent recycled content.

Retailer scofflaws are subject to a fine.

Faran Savitz, a zero-waste advocate with PennEnvironment in Pittsburgh, said the township is the 16th municipality in Pennsylvania to take action to reduce the usage of single-use plastics. The organization has been assisting communities, like Ambler, in enacting plastic restrictions.

“It’s a great first step. We know there are a bunch of other townships and boroughs that are looking to do similar actions, but it’s awesome to see them join,” Savitz said.

PennEnvironment, whose representatives worked with Cheltenham to write legislation, estimates that township residents use 13.7 million single-use plastic bags annually.

Lower Merion is considering a similar action.

More on plastic bags in Cheltenham is at WHYY.

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