Next time you shop in California, checkout may feel different. Since January 1, 2026, many stores, including most grocery stores, stores with a pharmacy, convenience stores, food marts, and liquor stores, cannot give out plastic shopping bags at checkout. If you need a bag, the store can offer a recycled paper bag, and it usually must charge at least ten cents. If you use EBT or WIC, that paper bag is free. (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)

So what is the easy plan for shopping? Bring your own reusable bag. A reusable bag is now the simplest choice. If you forget, you will usually choose paper, not plastic. And from January 1, 2028, those paper bags must contain at least 50% recycled material. Some small bags are still allowed, like bags for loose fruit, bags for medicine, or bags that protect clothes and other items. (www2.calrecycle.ca.gov)

There is also a bigger change behind the scenes. California’s SB 54 packaging law moved forward on May 1, 2026, when permanent rules took effect. This law puts more responsibility on the companies that make packaging. The state wants less single-use plastic over time: 10% less by 2027, 20% less by 2030, and 25% less by 2032. By 2032, covered packaging must also be recyclable or compostable. (calrecycle.ca.gov)

So yes, shopping is changing. The new habit is simple. Take a reusable bag. Say no to extra single-use plastic. And look for products with less packaging. One small choice at checkout can be part of a much bigger change in California. (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)