Unfortunately, it looks like it's back to square one in the move to ban plastic bags on the Big Island.

Last week, acting Big Island Mayor Dixie Kaetsu vetoed the bill, which would have banned businesses from using plastic bags at checkout.

She cited the fact that nonprofits that would be affected did not have enough time to comment. The impact on nonprofits didn't come to light until the final meeting, she said.

Fair enough. Any business that could be impacted should have the opportunity to weigh in. Kaetsu also cites the bill's impact on small businesses and the need for longer lead time for retailers to prepare.

Big Island County Council Chairman Pete Hoffmann said if the earlier vote is any indication, there's not enough support to override the veto.

As a compromise, a new bill will begin making its way through the council. The new bill, which would not take effect for two years once passed, would apply only to businesses with gross sales of $2 million or more a year, or those that are 10,000-square feet or greater, with a pharmacy and three or more outlets.

The bill needs work. It's too narrow, and the council must thoroughly examine whether it raises legal questions to single out a few retailers.

Any ban will require changes in behavior from retailers and consumers alike.

Hoffmann said more than 85 to 90 percent of the comments he received supported the original bill.

Sadly, that majority will have to wait — again — as the council revisits this issue one more time.