Abstract: A bag dispenser, for separating and dispensing plastic bags from a roll of bags where one end is attached to the top of the next bag by perforation lines with a slot therebetween. The bags are dispensed from a device comprising a wire frame formed into arcuate channels to support the core that the series of bags are rolled onto. The dispenser includes a second tensioning member attached to a support member and disposed at an angle thereto to provide tension to the edges of the roll of bags as the core passes through the channel passageway as bags are removed from the roll. Spaced apart from the support is a symmetric separating tongue. The tongue will engage the slot regardless of whether the bags are drawn over or under the tongue. As the user pulls on the bags, a tension is created by the brake and the user to deflect the tongue which remains deflected until the tongue engages the slot.