Managing litter and illegal dumping in Pennsylvania costs millions of dollars each year. In fact, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) spends roughly $14 million on efforts to manage the issue of littering. Litter is an eyesore, and a detriment to both the environment and public health. Trash scattered across our communities reduces property values and even deters businesses from developing here in Pennsylvania.
 
For these reasons and more, I will be introducing legislation to increase the fines for littering and illegal dumping of unwanted items. In a survey conducted by the Department of Environmental Protection, PennDOT, and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, over 90% of respondents stated that they believe litter is a problem in Pennsylvania. We need to step up our efforts to deter littering and illegal dumping.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation to keep our roadways and communities clean and safe.