Local bans on plastic grocery bags wouldn't be permitted, under a bill in the state Senate.
The bill would block local ordinances that regulate bags, take-out food containers and other types of packaging.
Sen. Jim Stamas, R-Midland, says the bill would allow the state to set one standard for plastic bags and other materials, as opposed to "piecemeal" bans that vary between communities.
"A business owner who has multiple units either in the same community or across the state could have to apply a different standard in a lot of different places," Stamas said.
Stamas says the legislation wouldn't prevent stores and restaurants from setting their own standards for bags and containers.
The bill is currently in committee.
Washtenaw and Muskegon counties have both considered plastic bag restrictions.
