KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and SportsNew restrictions on plastic bags coming to Twin Cities
ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Most residents of the Twin Cities metro area will soon face new state requirements on plastic yard bags, even though raking is months away.
A new state law taking effect on Friday requires metro-area residents -- except those who live in Minneapolis or St. Paul -- to use certified compostable bags for yard waste.
The requirement is waived for those who immediately empty their yard waste bags at a compost facility or transfer station. Minneapolis and St. Paul are exempt until 2013 if the cities develop compost collection systems.
Another law going into effect Friday prohibits labeling plastic bags as "biodegradable" or "compostable" unless the bags meet standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Businesses that violate the labeling law could face fines of up to $5,000.
