CALIFORNIA SENATE MAKES HISTORIC CONSERVATION DECISION

29 August 2014

The Center for Oceanic Awareness, Research, and Education (COARE), applauds the California State Senate for its passage tonight of Senate Bill 270 (Padilla, de León, Lara). SB 270 would phase out single–use plastic bags in California grocery stores, convenience stores, liquor stores, and pharmacies. Since its inception, COARE has been actively addressing plastic pollution and attempting to reduce single-use plastic consumption in the U.S. and worldwide.

SB 270, introduced by Senator Alex Padilla (D–Pacoima), Senator Kevin de León (D–Los Angeles), and Senator Ricardo Lara (D–Huntington Park/Long Beach), would be the first of its kind to be implemented at a statewide level. SB 270 was adopted by the California State Assembly by a vote of 44–29 yesterday, and was concurred by the Senate today with a vote of 22–15. The bill now moves on to the governor for action.

"A throw–away society is not sustainable. With SB 270 we have an opportunity to greatly reduce the flow of billions of single–use plastic bags that are discarded throughout our state. This is good for California and reflects our values as a state that cares about the environment, sea life and wildlife," said Senator Padilla, the bill's primary author.

"This is a tremendous victory for us all. It has taken us several long years to get here, but future generations will see this as the obvious choice. Today's vote makes a strong stand and proves that California is truly ready to make a difference," said Christopher Chin, COARE's Executive Director. "Today's decision sets a firm example for similar efforts across the nation and around the world. The message is loud and clear; we're telling the world that we've had enough plastic bags."

Through its "Enough with the plastic already!" campaign, COARE seeks to reduce the amount of oceanbound waste by helping people become more aware of how their habits affect the world around them. COARE raises public awareness of some very commonly overlooked sources of trash, and encourages people everywhere to examine their choices.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Christopher Chin
+1 510-495-7875
media@coare.org