The Big Plastic Ban in Bozeman Is On Hold…For Now

Businesses will have a little more time to figure out the next steps.

Plastic Ban in Bozeman

What's going on?

If you don't remember, the voters of Bozeman passed a ban on single-use plastic. This ban included bags and containers that restaurants and businesses use to carry products.

The ban wasn't passed by a small margin either. The ban has over 65% approval from the community.

Many places were wondering when the ban would be in effect. Plus, citizens were scrambling to make sure they had reusable bags around for any purpose.

They will have a little bit more time to figure it out.

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Plastic Ban on Hold in Bozeman

KBZK reports the plastic ban in Bozeman is on hold after the Montana Supreme Court overturned the decision.

Why was it overturned?

It's for a few reasons.

Businesses can't simply stop using single-use plastic bags or styrofoam containers immediately. There needs to be a plan in place so they can phase them out.

There also needs to be clear verbiage for businesses like grocery stores or retailers to allow the purchase of plastic or paper bags. Cities like Seattle, Salt Lake City, and others have instituted this ban, but Bozeman needs a plan of attack to make it go smoothly.

Does this mean the ban is dead?

Not exactly.

The plastic ban is on hold for now. The committee behind the ban will have to figure out the main details of what businesses in the Bozeman area will have to do to phase the ban into effect.

We could see the ban implemented in 2025, but it could be official in 2026.

Only time will tell.