These 16" x 18" x .003 clear patch handle reinforced poly bags with a 3" bottom gusset are a reusable bag based on most municipal plastic bag ordinances. They are being used in grocery stores in the City of Chicago. They are made in the USA and are completely recyclable at the end of their life span. The City of Chicago ordinance definition of a reusable bag is:
“Reusable bag” means
a bag with handles that is specifically designed and manufactured for multiple
reuse and meets all of the following requirements: (1) has a minimum lifetime
of 125 uses which, for purposes of this definition, means the capability of carrying
a minimum of 22 pounds 125 times over a distance of at least 175 feet; (2) has
a minimum volume of 15 liters; (3) is machine washable or is made from a
material that can be cleaned or disinfected; (4) does not contain lead,
cadmium, or any other heavy metal in toxic amounts; (5) has printed on the bag,
or on a tag that is permanently affixed to the bag, the name of the
manufacturer, the country where the bag was manufactured, a statement that the
bag does not contain lead, cadmium, or any other heavy metal in toxic amounts,
and the percentage of post-consumer recycled material used, if any; and (6) if
made of plastic, is a minimum of at least 2.25 mils thick.
