I used to do that when I shopped at Treasure Island. I haven't read the article, but if stores provided better-quality bags [like they do at T.I.] that could be re-used timed and time again, I'm wouldn't be against a tax.
Dominick's charges for their paper-lined shopping bags. They may not have a separate bag tax, but they may be taxed as part of the total sale.
jewel and TI both were charging for shopping bags, but now TI started giving them away for free - not sure why. but i always get shopping bags when i go food shopping - so much easier to carry food home when you don't have a car.