The bill amends the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act by updating penalties for littering based on the volume of litter involved. It establishes a tiered system of civil infractions and misdemeanors, with fines ranging from $800 for less than 1 cubic foot of litter to $10,000 for repeat offenders with 5 cubic yards or more. The bill also mandates that individuals convicted of littering must remove the litter and remediate any damage caused, with specific provisions for violations occurring on railroad property.
Additionally, the bill allows for reimbursement to local community groups or government entities that perform cleanup and remediation as a result of littering violations. It clarifies that reimbursement must not exceed actual cleanup costs and can be used in partnership with property owners. The bill also introduces civil liability for property owners and individuals involved in vehicle removal related to littering violations, ensuring they can seek damages for cleanup costs.
Statutes affected: House Introduced Bill: 324.8905