Discarded plastic water bottles generate an estimated 25 million tons of waste each year. And, that’s just the bottles that are properly discarded. Too often, used single-use plastic bottles litter our environment, clog our waterways and become toxic to animals. In fact, during our recent district office park cleanups, plastic bottles were pretty much all the trash we found.

Public servants have a responsibility to lead. To reduce plastic water bottle waste, Pennsylvania state government can lead by example. So that we may curb the usage of plastic water bottles and encourage people to utilize reusable water bottles, I will reintroduce legislation to require newly constructed Commonwealth buildings, as well as Commonwealth buildings undergoing major construction, to install water bottle filling stations. These water bottle filling stations are frequently found in airports, schools and other public buildings. In addition to reducing waste, the legislation will provide a healthful alternative to purchasing water or other beverages and a more sanitary dispensation than a traditional water fountain, or rest room sink.

Please join me in sponsoring this legislation so we may ensure we expand the availability of water bottle refilling stations in Commonwealth buildings.
 

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1259: P.L.177, No.175