Provides for litter abatement and enforcement and education programs
Impact
The bill is set to impact various state regulations by reorganizing how litter enforcement is monitored and executed. It confers specific responsibilities onto the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries for overseeing litter programs and emphasizes the creation of a new special account dedicated to litter abatement. This alteration indicates a shift in how the state will manage environmental concerns related to littering, promoting a more structured approach in educating citizens while ensuring compliance through enforcement.
Summary
House Bill 292 seeks to enhance litter abatement efforts in Louisiana by amending existing laws related to litter enforcement and education. The bill aims to create a framework for environmental education programs, particularly targeting school curricula, thereby instilling environmental values from a young age. Additionally, it proposes the establishment of a special litter abatement and education account that would collect funds generated from certain fees and fines, enabling further investment in these initiatives.
Sentiment
The discussions surrounding HB 292 reveal a predominantly positive sentiment among proponents who argue that the comprehensive educational efforts will lead to a long-term reduction in littering behaviors across the state. However, there are apprehensions from some stakeholders who are concerned about the practicality of implementation and whether the allocated funds will be sufficient in addressing the complexities of litter abatement effectively.
Contention
A notable point of contention arises from debate on the feasibility of fully implementing the educational programs outlined in the bill. The concerns emphasize whether the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries will have adequate resources and authority to enforce litter management effectively. Additionally, the incorporation of license plate fees as a revenue source has sparked discussions on whether this approach will meet the funding needs of the environmental initiatives proposed.
Separates litter abatement responsibilities, grant program, and fund account from the environmental education section of the Department of Education, and places them with the Department of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires driver education courses, training programs, and prelicensing training courses for children and adults to include teaching the economic effects of littering. (1/1/12)
Authorizes DEQ to once again grant transferable credits for the investigation or remediation of hazardous waste "brownfields" sites on and after July 1, 2011 through December 31, 2013, clarifies that the credit may be granted to any public or private "entity" whether taxable or non-taxable, and specifically authorizes credits for the remediation of public parks, playgrounds and other recreational areas. (7/1/11) (EN DECREASE GF RV See Note)