Committee advances statewide limits on single-use plastics, utensils and small toiletry containers (Senate Bill 551A)

The House Climate, Energy, and Environment Committee on April 29 voted to advance Senate Bill 551A to the House floor with a "do pass" recommendation. The measure would prohibit retailers and restaurants from providing reusable plastic or fabric checkout bags to customers, bar food and beverage providers and convenience stores from offering single-use plastic utensils or condiment packaging unless requested, and prohibit lodging establishments from providing small plastic personal care product containers unless requested.

Committee staff told members the bill has a minimal fiscal impact and no revenue impact. Vice Chair Gamba moved the bill to the floor with a due-pass recommendation; the motion passed on a roll call.

Representative Anderson, identifying herself as the chief sponsor, said the proposal builds on local ordinances she helped pass while on the Salem City Council and is consistent with state efforts to limit thin single-use plastic bags. Representative Owens opposed statewide preemption of local rules and voted no, saying cities and counties already have authority to impose such bans.

Roll-call votes recorded the following: yes — Representative Anderson; Representative Helm; Representative Emerson Levy; Representative Marsh; Vice Chair Gamba; Chair Tara Lively. No — Representative Edwards; Representative Osborne; Representative Owens. Excused — Representative Neron; Representative Wallen; Vice Chair Bobby Levy. The motion passed and Representative Anderson agreed to carry the bill to the floor.

The committee recessed briefly after the vote and then returned to take up additional items.