Norwalk officials cite environmental, economic reasons for plastic bag ban

Residents in Norwalk had a chance Tuesday to voice their opinions about a new ordinance that would ban plastic shopping bags.
Shoppers would bring their own reusable bags from home or use recyclable paper bags for 10 cents apiece.
City lawmakers say this is an important environmental and economic issue. They say as few as 1 percent of plastic bags end up being recycled.
Officials say early reactions to the ordinance have been positive. An informal poll on the city's Facebook page got over 750 responses – 82 percent in favor of it passing.
Similar ordinances have already been passed in Stamford, Weston and Westport.
The public hearing was held at Norwalk City Hall. Officials say if the ordinance passes, shoppers may see those changes by next summer.