The bill, S.B. No. 1773, aims to enhance the enforcement of municipal regulations against illegal dumping by increasing the penalties associated with such violations. Specifically, it amends Section 54.001(b) of the Local Government Code to raise the maximum fine for violations related to the dumping of refuse from $4,000 to $10,000. Additionally, it updates the Government Code and the Code of Criminal Procedure to reflect this increased penalty, ensuring that municipal courts have exclusive original jurisdiction over cases involving illegal dumping with the new fine structure.

The changes introduced by this bill will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025. Offenses occurring before this date will continue to be governed by the previous law, maintaining the legal framework in place at the time of the offense. This legislative update is intended to provide municipalities with stronger tools to combat illegal dumping and protect public health and safety.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Local Government Code 54.001, Government Code 29.003 (Local Government Code 54, Government Code 29)