The proposed bill introduces the "West Virginia Litter Control and Environmental Cleanup Act," which aims to enhance litter control efforts across the state by coordinating the resources of the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Transportation, and county solid waste authorities. It outlines the responsibilities of these agencies, including overseeing litter control, enforcing existing laws, and conducting educational campaigns. The bill also establishes the role of Litter Control Officers, who will have the authority to issue citations and fines for littering and illegal dumping, and provides funding eligibility for counties that employ these officers.

Additionally, the bill mandates the issuance of a Request for Proposal for a nonprofit independent contractor to manage statewide cleanup operations, including the removal of litter from roadways and the cleanup of illegal dumpsites and waterways. Funding for these initiatives will come from existing litter control funds, grants, fines, and private partnerships. The bill requires annual reports on the effectiveness of the program to be submitted to the Legislature, with the act set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-37-1, 22-37-2, 22-37-3, 22-37-4, 22-37-5, 22-37-6, 22-37-7