Arizona Reaches Settlement with Hefty Over Recyclable Trash Bag Claims

Hefty to make nationwide packaging changes and pay restitution to Arizona consumers.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Arizona Attorney General's Office has reached a settlement with Reynolds Consumer Products, the maker of Hefty trash bags, over allegations that the company falsely advertised its "Recycling" bags as recyclable in the state. Under the terms of the settlement, Hefty will make changes to its packaging nationwide to remove images and language implying the bags are suitable for recycling, and will pay restitution to Arizona consumers who purchased the "Recycling" bags.

Why it matters

This settlement highlights the importance of truth in advertising, especially when it comes to environmental claims. Misleading consumers about the recyclability of products can lead to improper disposal and contamination of the recycling stream, undermining recycling efforts. The case also demonstrates state attorneys general taking action to protect consumers from deceptive marketing practices.

The details

The lawsuit, filed in August 2025, alleged that Hefty's "Recycling" branded trash bags could not actually be recycled in Arizona, and could even lead to issues at recycling facilities if they were mistakenly included. Under the settlement, Hefty will remove images of recyclables from the packaging and explicitly state that the bags are not recyclable. The company will also pay $30,000 in restitution to Arizona consumers, $157,000 to the state, and $25,000 in costs and fees.

  • The lawsuit was filed by the Arizona Attorney General's Office in August 2025.
  • The settlement was announced on February 24, 2026.
  • Arizona consumers have until October 1, 2026 to file a complaint to be eligible for restitution.

The players

Kris Mayes

The Attorney General of Arizona who filed the lawsuit against Reynolds Consumer Products over the Hefty "Recycling" trash bags.

Reynolds Consumer Products

The parent company of the Hefty brand that manufactures the "Recycling" trash bags at the center of the lawsuit.

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What they’re saying

“Companies should not be able to exploit Arizonans' well-meaning desire to protect the environment. We won't allow companies to mislead consumers and imply products sold in our state are recyclable unless they can actually be recycled in Arizona.”

— Kris Mayes, Attorney General of Arizona

What’s next

Arizona consumers have until October 1, 2026 to file a complaint at azag.gov/complaints/consumer to be eligible for restitution from Reynolds Consumer Products.

The takeaway

This settlement demonstrates that state attorneys general are willing to take action against companies that make misleading environmental claims, underscoring the need for truth in advertising and transparency around the recyclability of consumer products. It also highlights the importance of aligning product marketing with the recycling capabilities of local communities.