Theses and Dissertations Collection

This research explores discrepancies between the attitudes and behaviors of the community of Latah County, Idaho, towards disposable single-use plastic bags, and Idaho House Bill 372 (HB372). A survey was completed by 271 community members to assess their behaviors and attitudes towards plastic bag usage and legislation. Comparisons were drawn between survey participant responses based on their political affiliation, and it shows that although democratic participants had higher percentages in favor of both voluntary compliance methods as well as legislation restricting plastic bags, the majority republican respondents were also in favor of both. The beliefs and attitudes of all members surveyed in Latah County, despite political affiliation, were not consistent with the restrictions of HB 372. This research supports the idea that local government entities are more suited to support the attitudes and behaviors of communities suggests that restrictive legislation such as HB 372 may hinder desired progressive action.