California: Backers of Plastic Bags Prevail.

The State Senate rejected a bill seeking to ban plastic shopping bags after a contentious debate over whether the state was going too far in trying to regulate personal choice. The bill, which failed late Tuesday, would have been the first statewide ban, although a few California cities already prohibit their use. Republicans and some Democrats opposed it, saying it would add an extra burden on consumers and businesses at a time when many are struggling financially. The bill's main opponent, the American Chemistry Council, based in Virginia, spent millions in lobbying fees and on advertising attacking the measure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]