In the near future, I intend to reintroduce HB95 from last Session which increases the penalties associated with the criminal offense of littering.  The intentional or careless discarding of waste products is not only uncivil and discourteous, but a blight on the environment and critical ecosystems of our Commonwealth.  Indeed, the act of littering contaminates the soil, waterways, and oceans and introduces toxic substances that harm wildlife.  Plastics and other non-biodegradable waste products can remain in the environment for decades, thereby contributing to long-term pollution and the degradation of our communities.    
 
My legislation will increase the grading of the offense of littering from a summary to a misdemeanor of the third degree if the collective total weight of the litter is a pound or more.  Second or subsequent convictions for littering shall be graded as a misdemeanor of the second degree.  By increasing the criminal penalties, we can discourage individuals from further contributing to environmental harm and promote respect for public spaces. 

Please join me in cosponsoring this important legislation to better protect our Commonwealth.