The proposed bill aims to amend existing littering and illegal dumping laws in West Virginia by enhancing penalties and establishing new enforcement mechanisms. It introduces a new article, the "West Virginia Rural Littering and Illegal Dumping Prevention Act," which includes definitions of litter and illegal dumping, as well as provisions for penalties, restitution, and the creation of a Rural Illegal Dumping Prevention Fund. The bill specifies that individuals convicted of illegal dumping may face significant fines, community service requirements, and restitution for cleanup costs. Enhanced penalties are also introduced for repeat offenders and for violations occurring near protected waters or wetlands.

Additionally, the bill empowers local authorities, including the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and county solid waste authorities, to enforce littering laws and issue citations. It allows counties to designate officers with specific enforcement powers and provides for public education campaigns to raise awareness about littering and illegal dumping. The Rural Illegal Dumping Prevention Fund will be financed through fines and other revenues, with funds allocated for cleanup programs, grants to local authorities, and public education initiatives. Overall, the bill seeks to strengthen the state's efforts to combat littering and illegal dumping, particularly in rural areas.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 22-15A-4, 22-15B-1, 22-15B-2, 22-15B-3, 22-15B-4, 22-15B-5, 22-15B-6, 22-15B-7