Though businesses have requested a delay regarding a ban on plastic shopping bags, it remains pending to take effect on January 1, 2021, according to a Department of Ecology update earlier this week.

Ecology has published a toolkit for businesses to begin preparation here. According to the department, the toolkit will be translated into 23 languages in the next couple of months.

The Department of Revenue is expected to begin education efforts on business and occupation tax exemptions for the plastic bag pass-through charge via a web message to all impacted tax reporting accounts. Businesses can review frequently asked questions about the ban on the Ecology Bag Ban Webpage.

Ecology reports it is aware of potential problems with paper and plastic bag supplies and the ability of some businesses to comply with the ban. However, it stresses that the ban implementation date remains in effect until further notice.

Businesses with questions should contact Shannon Jones, Materials Management Coordinator, Department of Ecology, at 360-742-9874 or [email protected].