The City of Victoria has asked Canada’s top court to review the decision that overturned the city’s bylaw to regulate the use of plastic checkout bags.

In July, the BC Court of Appeal ruled the purpose of the bylaw was the protection of the natural environment, requiring approval from the Ministry of Environment prior to being enacted. Victoria did not have that provincial approval before putting the policy in place.

“The BC Court of Appeal decision goes far beyond the issue of plastic bags. It strikes at the heart of the power of local governments to regulate business practices in line with 21st-century community values,” Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps said.

“If the decision is allowed to stand it can potentially be interpreted to severely limit the power of local governments. This is why the City of Victoria is seeking leave to appeal to the Supreme Court of Canada.”

Read the full story at GlobalNews.ca