The proposed bill aims to enhance litter control and environmental cleanup efforts in West Virginia by establishing the "West Virginia Litter Control and Environmental Cleanup Act." It introduces a new article to the Code of West Virginia, detailing the responsibilities of state agencies, local authorities, and the role of nonprofit contractors in managing litter and illegal dumping. The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Transportation are tasked with overseeing litter control initiatives, conducting enforcement, and coordinating cleanup efforts. Additionally, counties that employ Litter Control Officers will be eligible for funding assistance to bolster their enforcement and cleanup activities.

The bill also outlines the process for the state to issue a Request for Proposal for a nonprofit contractor to conduct statewide cleanup operations, including cleaning illegal dumpsites and removing litter from roadways and waterways. Funding for these initiatives will come from existing litter control funds, grants, fines from litter violations, and private partnerships. The bill mandates annual reports on program effectiveness 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