Yes, it's true. Some reusable bags contain lead (synthetic, not cotton bags). I wish I could tell you that this story is new, but the reality is that it's been around for a while now. That said, while the companies in question (reportedly bags from Winn-Dixie, Publix, Sweetbay, Walmart and Target, according to USA Today) are struggling to find new, non-toxic bags for their businesses, it's up to the consumer to do some research.

Remember that many of the bags, although leaded, aren't likely to leach it into your packaged food. The threat is greater for the environment at large. That said, it would be best to phase out the ones you have and, most importantly, dispose of them properly. Either return them to the store in question or take them to a recycling center. 

At the risk of sounding like a billboard, I'll share my favorite online shop, Reuseit.com. I buy many of my reusable items here when I can't find them locally (or my toddler won't endure the drive). And to assuage your fears a bit, they've even included a blog post about their lead-free bags.

As with most of the things we buy, it often takes more time to choose it than to use it. This is one of those situations. It helps to have companies in your corner that stand by their products and research them so you don't have to. After all, the consumers are the ones filling the bags.