Beginning on page 1, after line 2, strike all material through "RCW." on page 9, line 15, and insert the following:

"NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1. (1) The department of ecology must examine and compare the life-cycle environmental impacts of carryout bags, including the effects on water quality and greenhouse gas emissions. The examination must include a review and comparison of:

(a) Paper and plastic bags;

(b) Recycled content paper and plastic bags;

(c) Compostable and biodegradable plastic bags; and

(d) Bags designed specifically to have long-term multiple uses.

(2) The department must contract with an independent third-party consultant to conduct a study that meets the requirements specified under subsection (1) of this section.

(3) By December 1, 2020, the department of ecology must provide a completed study to the appropriate committees of the legislature."

On page 9, line 17, after "insert" strike all material through "penalties." on line 19 and insert "and creating a new section."