Connecticut House Bill HB05374

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/19/11
• Refer: 1/19/11

Caption

An Act Increasing Fines For The Littering Of Cigarette Filters.

Impact

The bill, if passed, would result in heightened financial penalties for those found guilty of improperly disposing of cigarette filters. These amendments to the general statutes would reflect an effort to strengthen environmental protections and may lead to more aggressive enforcement measures related to public littering offenses. The raised fines might serve as a potential deterrent, which proponents argue could lead to cleaner public spaces and ultimately enhance the overall quality of life for residents.

Summary

House Bill 05374, presented by Representative Kiner, aims to amend existing statutes by increasing the fines levied against individuals who litter cigarette filters. The impetus behind this legislation is to deter littering and improve environmental conditions by addressing the impact of cigarette waste, which is a significant contributor to pollution. By enacting stricter penalties, the bill seeks to foster greater public awareness regarding the environmental effects of littering and promote cleaner communities.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 05374 may include the effectiveness of increased fines as a deterrent against littering. Some critics might argue that merely raising penalties does not address the root causes of littering behavior and could disproportionately impact low-income individuals. Furthermore, there may be discussions on the balance between necessary enforcement of littering laws and the potential for over-regulation in how littering is defined and prosecuted.

Additional_context

Public discourse on this bill is likely to involve environmental advocacy groups, local governments, and constituents concerned with public cleanliness, making it a topic of broader discussion about individual responsibility and community standards in environmental preservation.