Defines cigarettes, cigarette butts, cigarillos, cigar or cigarillo tips as litter and provides for littering penalties (EN INCREASE RV See Note)
Impact
The proposed changes under HB 1075 would impact existing zero-tolerance policies on littering in Louisiana. By introducing specific penalties for the littering of smoking-related waste, the bill aims to reduce the prevalence of these items in public spaces. The penalties established within the bill include fines and mandated community service, with escalating repercussions for repeated offenses. This may encourage compliance among citizens and serve as a deterrent against littering behavior, while also contributing to community clean-up efforts.
Summary
House Bill 1075 aims to amend current legislation related to littering by defining cigarettes, cigarette butts, cigars, cigarillos, and tips as forms of litter that carry specific penalties. The bill establishes a clear legal definition of what constitutes litter, expanding it to include various materials related to smoking products. This legislation intensifies the focus on littering issues specifically associated with tobacco products, signaling a broader attempt to address environmental concerns stemming from such waste.
Sentiment
Discussions around HB 1075 have generally been supportive, particularly among environmental groups and public health advocates who see the need for stricter measures to combat littering. These supporters argue that the bill not only promotes cleaner communities but also helps reinforce social responsibility regarding waste disposal. However, there may also be opposition from certain quarters suggesting that penalties could be considered excessive or that such laws disproportionately target specific demographics associated with tobacco use.
Contention
A notable point of contention regarding HB 1075 revolves around the balance between enforcing stringent penalties and promoting civic responsibility. While proponents advocate for tougher laws to mitigate littering, opponents argue that there should be more focus on public education about littering rather than punitive measures. This debate highlights the ongoing conversation about how best to engage communities in environmental stewardship while discouraging behaviors that contribute to litter.
Removes the sunset on a portion of the tax levied on cigarettes and increases the tax on cigars, cigarettes, smoking tobacco, and smokeless tobacco (OR +$121,900,000 GF RV See Note)