Doug O'Malley

There was an 18-month heads-up. But compliance with New Jersey's ban on single-use plastic bags — and paper bags in many instances — may not be 100%.

Testing for bacteria levels occurs at more than 200 ocean and bay beaches in the Garden State.

You've got 18 months to get used to the fact that your groceries will no longer be placed in plastic or paper bags on your way out of the store.

Transportation advocates worry a hike in NJ Transit fares could be next and say the state should divert toll-hike revenue rather than widen roads.

Legislation banning plastic bags, paper bags and Styrofoam food containers is approved by the Senate and back to the Assembly, where it stalled two months ago.

The bill would ban single-use carryout bags in two years. Its sponsor says it will be a top priority in the new session with a first hearing on Jan. 30.

New Jersey has already had several air quality alerts.