Mary Ellen Peppard

Supermarkets usually donate a lot of products but haven't as they try to meet customer demand. That has food banks spending more for oft-scarce supplies.

Legislation endorsed by the Senate health committee would impact retailers such as supermarkets that have pharmacies, as well as stand-alone pharmacies.

The fee would raise $23.4 million a year -- a nickel at a time, on carryout plastic and paper bags. The money would be diverted to balance the state budget.