Plastic bag ban tested on NC Outer Banks

MANTEO, N.C. — An experiment ordering big grocery stores to stop giving away disposable plastic bags on North Carolina’s Outer Banks has taken effect.

The law that took effect Tuesday means big stores on the barrier islands must offer paper bags made of 100 percent recycled paper or coax customers to try reusable shopping bags. The law only applies to large stores on islands or peninsulas in Dare, Currituck and Hyde counties.

Supporters say the law is designed to preserve the environment and protect wildlife. Environmentalists say the bags can be swallowed by turtles that choke on them.

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