The plastic bag debate can wait. Let’s protect workers first. | Opinion

Three percent of reusable grocery store bags get washed. That’s not a typo, 3%, according to peer-reviewed academic research.

In light of this, stores and elected leaders on all levels have called for the banning of reusable bags from stores. Environmental activist organizations have blamed this on a nefarious plot by the plastic bag industry. However, the contamination of reusable bags is an issue that has been studied and discussed for the past decade. For years, we have said that stores should have the ability to use what they feel is best for the safety of their workers and customers. And now that we are in a health crisis, this is especially important.

Read the full op-ed on NJ.com.