PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – A bill to prevent South Dakota cities from banning plastic bags, straws and beverage containers is advancing through the state Legislature.

The full Senate approved the bill Thursday.

The bill’s sponsor, District 4 Republican Senator John Wiik of Big Stone City, says prohibiting cities from banning plastic bags and straws is needed because South Dakota is basically one large, spread-out small town.

Senator V.J. Smith of Brookings spoke against the bill. He says it violates local control.

When asked, Wiik said no local government entities in the state have enacted any sort of plastic ban. He says his bill is preemptive.

The bill passed on the Senate floor 22-12 and now moves to the House.

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