Why didn't this go on the ballot for a vote?

The California Constitution authorizes the City to “make and enforce within its limits all local, police, sanitary and other ordinances and regulations not in conflict with general laws.” There is nothing under either state or federal law that constrains the City’s ability to regulate the sale of bags or to prohibit the sale of disposable bags of a certain manufacture type. Some local measures that impose special taxes must be placed on the ballot; however, the ordinance does not create any special tax, nor does it generate any revenue or general fund money for the city. Thus, it is not subject to this requirement.


Plus, with four community meetings to discuss the proposed city ordinance and public comment at City Council when the item was heard, residents of Napa - and business owners who may not reside in Napa - had the opportunity to have their voices heard and provide input and feedback directly to elected officials rather than just a yes or no vote on the ballot.

Show All Answers

1. What is the purpose of Napa’s Single-Use Bag Reduction Ordinance?
2. What does the ordinance cover?
3. What bags are affected?
4. Are there any exceptions to this ban?
5. When does the ordinance take effect?
6. Who is affected by the ordinance?
7. What about the statewide plastic bag law?
8. Is an ordinance the same as a law?
9. Why didn't this go on the ballot for a vote?
10. How will the ordinance be enforced?
11. What happens to businesses that do not comply?
12. What is being done to educate the public?
13. Where can I get more information?