Rhode Island to ban single-use plastic bags effective Jan. 1

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A statewide ban on plastic bags will go into effect in Rhode Island on Monday.

The Department of Environmental Management said it’s part of a mission to decrease microplastic pollution in the Ocean State.

Stores like Market Basket and Stop and Shop will offer paper bags.

Shoppers are advised to bring their own reusable bags.

Stores that do not comply with the law will be fined starting at $100.

Other laws going into effect Monday include a $1 increase in the minimum wage to $14 an hour.

Also starting Monday, 17-year-olds can participate in primary elections as long as they are registered to vote and will be 18 before the general election.

Rhode Islanders can register to vote if they are at least 16-years-old.

Gov. Dan McKee also signed legislation recognizing Juneteenth National Freedom Day as an official state holiday next year.