Oregon considers statewide ban on plastic bags

[February 07, 2011]  GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP) -- Oregon lawmakers will consider whether the state should become the first to pass a ban on plastic bags, a measure recycling advocates believe would trigger a domino effect among other states.

A bill co-sponsored by two Republicans and two Democrats would outlaw throwaway plastic check-out bags at all retail stores in Oregon, a state that is already a leader in passing green legislation. Shoppers would be forced to bring their own bag or pay a nickel apiece for recycled paper bags under SB536.

A hearing is set for Tuesday on the proposed ban, which is supported by the Northwest Grocers Association and one of the state's biggest bag users -- Fred Meyer stores.

Supporters expect a fight with the chemical industry.

[Associated Press; By JEFF BARNARD]

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