A Trenton-based trade group that represents New Jersey supermarkets and food suppliers opposes the proposed 5-cent fee on paper and plastic grocery bags that advanced in the state Senate Monday, claiming it would be a burden on consumers.
The New Jersey Food Council, which has 400 members representing over 1,200 retail food stores, wholesalers, manufacturers and suppliers, is against the fee on disposable bags because it says it would add more costs to the neediest of consumers, as prices for food increase because of food inflation and the severe drought in the Midwest.
The bill, which passed the Senate Environment and Energy Committee and is headed for a vote in the full Senate, aims to cut down on the pollution from plastic and paper bags. By January 2015, retailers would not be allowed to use disposable bags unless they are recyclable.
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