EL PASO, Texas -- While plastic bags come in handy at grocery stores, Texans may have to pay for convenience. A Texas congressman is proposing a bill that would make residents pay 7 cents for every plastic bag that you get from a grocery store, hardware store or even the mall.

"It might make us think about stop using plastic, wouldn't it," said Clara Griswold of the Upper Valley.

Reducing plastic bag use is the idea behind the bill proposed by Texas House Rep. Rafael Anchia, D-Dallas. Anchia wants to cut down on the damage plastic bags do to the environment.

A portion of the money would go to retailers, the other part would go to cities to help them pay for recycling programs.

"Well, it would cost me quite a bit, but it would encourage me to go ahead and bring my own bags," said Griswold.

Others like the idea, even if it cost more.

"Well I kind of like it because we have to take care of our planet," said Judith Valle of east El Paso.

Not everyone is welcoming it with open arms.

"'To charge you 7 cents, I think that's kind of ridiculous," said Eva Martinez of west El Paso.

El Paso is one of a handful of Texas cities trying to ban plastic bags, but city officials said this may not be the answer.

In a written statement, City Rep. Susie Byrd of District 2 said in part, "It is not the best option. We are not quite ready to begin banning and taxing plastic bags."

"I think it would be a real hardship on people to buy groceries and then also have to pay for the plastic bag," said Yvette Loya of central El Paso.

The 7 cents will not be charged for plastic bags that consumers use to put their produce in. The charge would also not apply if consumers bring their own bag, even if it is plastic.

Texas House bill 1362 has been filed, but not yet sent to a committee. Lawmakers said they still want to discuss the issue with retailers.

Virginia and Maryland are also considering charging 7 cents for plastic bags to curb usage.