We, the undersigned residents of New Britain Borough and concerned community members, urge the New Britain Borough Council to reconsider and repeal the upcoming ban on single-use plastic bags in local stores. We believe that this ban has several negative consequences for consumers and may not be the most effective or convenient solution for our community.

Plastic bags offer a level of convenience that is unmatched for our shopping needs. They are lightweight, easy to handle, and readily available at checkout.

Furthermore, these bags have significant value beyond their initial use. Many residents rely on plastic shopping bags for a variety of personal reasons, including:

 * Household trash bags: Their size and waterproof nature make them ideal for small waste disposal needs around the home.

 * Pet waste disposal (doggy bags): They provide a sanitary and convenient way to clean up after our pets.

 * Protecting items: They can be used to wrap or store various items, keeping them clean and dry.

A significant drawback of the ban is the increased cost to consumers. Plastic bags have historically been provided to shoppers free of charge. Now, we are faced with the added expense of purchasing reusable bags (which many of us dislike due to concerns about cleanliness and inconvenience) or paper bags.

Reusable bags raise concerns about hygiene and practicality. They can develop unpleasant odors from being left in vehicles or from previous use, potentially harboring bacteria and creating unsanitary conditions, especially after carrying items like meat or produce. The responsibility of consistently cleaning these bags falls on the consumer, which is an added burden.

While paper bags are presented as an alternative, they also have environmental drawbacks. Their production requires the harvesting of trees, a vital natural resource. Additionally, the manufacturing and transportation of paper bags can be energy-intensive.

We believe that the convenience, reusability for various household needs, and historical cost-free availability of plastic bags outweigh the perceived benefits of the upcoming ban. We respectfully request that the New Britain Borough Council listen to the concerns of its residents and take immediate action to lift the ban on single-use plastic bags, allowing them to be available in our local stores once again.

We urge you to sign this petition to show your support for bringing back plastic bags to New Britain!