It's looking like the bags may be banned.

Legislation that would eventually ban plastic and paper bags from being used at retail shops and restaurants in New Jersey was passed earlier this month by the Senate and has been kicked to the state Assembly.

But the restriction on plastic bags, paper bags and Styrofoam food containers would take effect in 18 months, rather than the two years once planned. It also restricts plastic straws at restaurants, unless customers request them.

Jim Gearhart's all for the ban, but he's not crazy about waiting 18 months, he said in the latest edition of the weekly Jim Gearhart Show podcast and Facebook Live show.

"By 18 months, there won't be any oceans left," Gearhart said. "So it's kind of a moot point."

Jim would like to see the ban go into effect immediately.

"Unfortunately, you can't do that because of the commercial interest, the corp interest in these bags," Jim said.

The Jim Gearhart show is LIVE on Facebook every Thursday at 10:30 a.m., at Facebook.com/NJ1015. Got an idea for an upcoming installment of Jim's show? Meet Jim at Facebook.com/NJ1015 to suggest it in the comments, or email Jim@nj1015.com.

The Jim Gearhart Show podcast is available every week on New Jersey 101.5 and in the New Jersey 101.5 app. You can also subscribe with your favorite podcasting app for iPhonesAndroid devices or your computer:

That's just part of what Jim and Bob Williams take on in the latest installment of his show, also available as a podcast. Check out the full episode to hear the rest.

Love Podcasts? This week, on Speaking Podcast: the gang says the best way to relax is stupid TV.

— New Jersey 101.5 staff. Includes prior reporting by Dan Alexander

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-- Includes past reporting by Michael Symons

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