Save the Plastic Bag Coalition v. City of Manhattan Beach

The City of Manhattan Beach issued a negative declaration under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in connection with an ordinance prohibiting certain retailers from providing plastic bags to customers. A coalition of retail groups commenced an action seeking to invalidate the ordinance. A state trial court vacated the ordinance pending an environmental impact report (EIR).  On appeal, the appellate court affirmed, holding that the City should have prepared an EIR given that the ordinance could have a significant environmental impact.