Oregon House approves ban on plastic checkout bags

(Update: Removing incorrect reference to pre-emption clause)

SALEM, Ore. (AP) – The Oregon House has approved a statewide ban on single-use plastic shopping bags.

Lawmakers voted 42-18 Thursday to pass House Bill 2509, which would prohibit large retailers and grocery stores from offering plastic checkout bags.

Stores are able to offer recycled paper bags and reusable plastic bags for a 5-cent fee.

Republicans complained the move limits consumer choice and that those decisions should be left for local communities to decide. Many Oregon cities have already banned plastic checkout bags, including Bend.

The measure now goes to the Senate for consideration. Oregon would become the third state to enact a ban on plastic shopping bags, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

The state is also considering bans on plastic straws and styrofoam to-go containers.