MARYLAND – Forget the “nickel-and-diming”—starting January 1, 2026, Maryland’s bag laws are getting a significant upgrade. If you live in Montgomery County or do your shopping in the surrounding suburban hubs, your checkout routine is about to look very different.
The “Bring Your Own Bag” (BYOB) Law officially takes effect on New Year’s Day, effectively banning single-use plastic carryout bags at most retail checkouts and doubling the fee for paper bags. Here is everything you need to know before you head to the grocery store in 2026.
The Big Change: No More Plastic, Higher Fees
For over a decade, Montgomery County has charged 5 cents for plastic and paper bags. But as of January 1, the “nickel…..