CA AB1834

Amends the definition of "reusable bag" to require bags have a minimum lifetime of 125 uses (carrying 22 pounds for 175 feet), minimum volume of 15 liters, be machine washable, and contain no lead, cadmium, or heavy metals in prohibited amounts.

Requires reusable bags to display manufacturer name, manufacturing location, heavy metal content statement, and percentage of postconsumer recycled material, with plastic bags required to be at least 2.25 mils thick.

Mandates store operators make reusable bags available to customers starting July 1, 2013, and requires transition period from January 1 to June 30, 2013 using prior definition of reusable bags.

Deletes prohibition preventing cities, counties, and local public agencies from adopting ordinances regarding plastic carryout bag collection, fees, and reporting requirements.

Bill becomes operative only if Senate Bill 1219 is enacted and becomes effective by January 1, 2013, extending the repeal date of the at-store recycling program requirements.