The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 5914, seeks to amend current environmental regulations by repealing the existing prohibition on the distribution of single-use plastic bags by certain merchants. This change would allow merchants to distribute single-use plastic bags once again, effectively reversing the previous ban.

In addition to the repeal of the plastic bag prohibition, the bill introduces a new regulation that prohibits the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in paper straws. This dual approach aims to eliminate restrictions on plastic bags while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns related to harmful chemicals in paper products.