The bill amends RCW 70A.200.060 to increase penalties for littering in Washington State. It reclassifies the civil infraction for littering less than or equal to one cubic foot from a class 3 to a class 2 infraction. Additionally, it establishes a tiered penalty system where littering amounts greater than one cubic foot but less than 10 cubic yards is classified as a misdemeanor, while littering more than 10 cubic yards is classified as a gross misdemeanor. The bill also introduces a requirement for offenders to pay a litter clean-up restitution payment, which is four times the actual cleanup cost for natural resource infractions and misdemeanors, and two times the actual cost for gross misdemeanors. Furthermore, it allows courts to order offenders to perform community service in state parks where violations occur.

In addition to the increased penalties, the bill creates a new section that mandates the Department of Ecology to convene a littering solutions task force. This task force will provide policy recommendations aimed at reducing littering in Washington, ensuring that the amount of litter collected annually matches the amount deposited. The task force will include representatives from various state departments and associations related to waste management, retail, hospitality, and more. The Department of Ecology is required to submit a status update by January 15, 2026, and a final report with recommendations by November 15, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 70A.200.060