Businesses that emit malodors or unpleasant, but non-toxic odors, can be a nuisance for those living in the vicinity of the business. While the PA Department of Environmental Protection issues fines for malodor violations, these businesses may continue to operate while the malodor violations continue. Furthermore, it is less costly to pay the fines than to pay to remedy the malodor, which may impact a business’ willingness to resolve the violation.

For this reason, I plan to introduce legislation that would require a business that willfully or negligently commits a malodor violation to pay a fine of $150,000 for a first violation, $200,000 for a second violation, and $250,000 for a third violation. If 30 days have elapsed from the notice of a third violation, and the business has not resolved the malodor violation, the business would be required to cease operations until the violation is resolved.

This legislation will assist in holding businesses accountable that commit malodor violations while ensuring that the residents of the community have an odor-free place to live. Please join me in co-sponsoring this legislation.