PHOENIX (AP) - In an effort to get around a lawsuit, the House has given initial approval to a measure revising state law outlawing cities from banning plastic bags.
The law passed last session prevents cities from banning disposable products. It also blocks cities from requiring business owners to report energy consumption.
Rep. Warren Petersen of Gilbert sponsored last year's bill and is now sponsoring legislation that splits the provisions into two separate measures.
Petersen said he wants to separate the law to avoid litigation.
The lawsuit filed on behalf of Tempe city council member Lauren Kuby claims the law violates a state constitutional provision requiring each bill to have a single subject.
The House Bill 2130 and 2131 passed on voice vote Tuesday. It now awaits a formal vote.
