The bill amends Section 37-15-7 of the General Laws in Chapter 37-15, which is related to "Litter Control and Recycling." The amendment increases the penalties for littering offenses. For a first violation, the fine is raised from a minimum of $85 to a minimum of $200, with the maximum fine remaining at $1,000. Additionally, the bill increases the mandatory community service for picking up litter from a minimum of 2 hours to a minimum of 20 hours, and from a maximum of 25 hours to a maximum of 40 hours.

For second or subsequent violations, the bill maintains the minimum fine of $300 and the maximum of $5,000, but increases the community service requirement to a minimum of 20 hours, with the maximum remaining at 50 hours. The bill also specifies that funds received by state law enforcement from fines are to be deposited as general revenues, with 30% of fines collected by local law enforcement agencies benefiting those agencies. The bill allows for administrative handling of $200 fines without a court appearance. The act would take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
130: 37-15-7