The Bunion | An unauthorized publication of Rose Law Group Reporter
A state Senate committee Tuesday adopted a bill that would permit the installation of shag carpet in homes. The bill repeals a long-time ban on shag carpet in Arizona passed by the Legislature in 1995.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Ed Barnswerth (R-Mesa), says the ban discriminates against interior designers and homebuyers who desire a “70s look” in a home.
“Shag carpet is making a little of a comeback,” Barnswerth said in an interview with The Bunion.
“Shag is well-known for its . . . well, for lack of a better word . . . shaggy appearance,” he explained.
Shag carpet, which came in all colors in the 70s, became the target of environmentalists who claimed it gathered and retained harmful airborne bacteria that could not be eliminated by vacuuming or shampooing.
It’s constructed with tall tufts and low density, causing the carpet fibers to lie down like hair on your head. If you have a buzz cut, it will stand up, but as the hair gets longer it lies down. This gives shag its unique appearance.
The Senate Health and Human Services forwarded the bill to the full Senate on a 7-1 vote. The dissenting vote came from Sen. Alice Cooper (D-Phoenix)
“Shag carpet represents an era of government suppression of free speech and rock ‘n roll,” he said.
