What HB 1293 Means for Tri-Cities Businesses and Shoppers

What HB 1293 Means for Tri-Cities Businesses and Shoppers
​

Washington’s new law, House Bill 1293, brings important changes to how plastic and paper bags are regulated in Washington, with new fees, penalties, and requirements that will impact both consumers and businesses, especially in regions like the Tri-Cities, where preparation and awareness are key to staying compliant and minimizing disruption.

What Is HB 1293 About?

House Bill 1293 was passed to reduce litter and improve the state’s bag regulations. It increased the fine for littering small amounts of trash from $103 to $125. If someone throws litter from a car or drops it on a state highway, the penalties are even higher.

The law also changes how stores can offer plastic and paper bags to customers. Currently, most stores charge at least 8 cents for each paper or reusable plastic bag. Starting in 2026, this charge will rise to 12 cents for reusable plastic bags. These bags are supposed to be at least 4 mils thick to be considered reusable, but the requirement has been delayed until 2028. Until then, thinner bags can still be used, but there is a catch. From 2026 to 2027, stores will have to charge an extra 4-cent penalty if they give out 4-mil plastic bags. This extra money goes to the state to support recycling and litter control.

The law makes it clear that stores cannot refund bag charges, and receipts must show the exact fee and any penalties. People using food assistance programs, such as WIC or SNAP, do not have to pay bag charges.

Why This Matters for Businesses

If you run a store or restaurant in the Tri-Cities, you must make some changes. Your cash register system must clearly show the new charges on receipts. You must also ensure that your bags are correctly labeled and comply with the state’s rules. This could involve updating supplies, training staff, and informing customers.

Larger businesses might find these changes easier to handle, but small shops could face higher costs and more paperwork than before. Some shoppers may also complain about the extra fees, especially if they are not expecting them.

How It Affects Shoppers

As HB 1293 begins to take effect, businesses and shoppers in the Tri-Cities will see noticeable changes at checkout lines and behind-the-scenes. While the goal is a cleaner environment and more consistent regulations across the state, the transition may come with added costs and confusion, especially for small businesses. By staying informed and taking early action, local businesses can adapt smoothly, and customers can make smarter choices about how they shop. To obtain a full breakdown of the rules and how to comply, visit the Washington State Department of Ecology’s plastic bag ban page at:
https://ecology.wa.gov/Waste-Toxics/Reducing-recycling-waste/Plastic-bag-ban
​

References
1.Washington State Legislature. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1293 – Final Bill Report (2025)
https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bill%20Reports/House/1293-S.E%20HBR%20PL%2025.pdf
2.Washington State Legislature. Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1293 – Passed Legislature Text
https://lawfilesext.leg.wa.gov/biennium/2025-26/Pdf/Bills/House%20Passed%20Legislature/1293-S.PL.pdf
3.Washington State Department of Ecology. Plastic Bag Ban Resources for Businesses
https://ecology.wa.gov/Waste-Toxics/Reducing-recycling-waste/Plastic-bag-ban
4.Washington State Legislature. RCW 70A.530 – Sustainable Packaging Requirements
https://app.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=70A.530
Note: This blog article is written for general understanding and does not serve as legal advice. For specific compliance questions, consult the Washington State Department of Ecology or your legal advisor.
This article was written with contributions from AI to organize the information and improve its readability.
​​