SACRAMENTO – (INT) – Single-use plastic bags will be going the way of the Edsel in California.

Governor Brown Tuesday signed the nation’s first statewide ban on the convenience bags that have become a contributor to litter at beaches, parks and along roadsides.

“This bill is taking into consideration the needs of the environment and the economy and the needs of the grocers,” Brown said.

The state law is aligned with ordinances passed by a growing number of cities.

Specifically, it prohibits grocery stores and pharmacies from distributing single-use plastic bags after July 2015 and enacts the same ban for convenience stores and liquor stores the following year.

Story Date: October 6, 2014