Oregon Considers Statewide Ban On Plastic Bags

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.