SEATTLE (AP) — Voters in eco-conscious Seattle are deciding whether to pay a 20-cent fee for every paper or plastic bag they get from supermarkets, drug stores and convenience stores.
City leaders had passed a bag fee ordinance that was to start in January. But the plastics industry bankrolled a referendum to put the question to voters in Tuesday's election.
Plastic bag makers have lobbied hard to defeat the fee, outspending opponents about 15 to 1.
Supporters say the fee would encourage more reusable bags, cut down on pollution and waste, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Also in Seattle, unpopular Mayor Gregg Nickels faces seven challengers in his bid for a third term. The top two advance to the November general election.
