Pennsylvania House Bill HB1102

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/5/23
• Refer: 5/5/23

Caption

In other offenses, further providing for violation of rules regarding conduct on Commonwealth property; in protection of property and waters, further providing for the offense of littering; in protection of property and persons, further providing for the offense of littering and restrictions on vehicles; and, in size, weight and load, further providing for securing loads in vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1102 would significantly impact the enforcement of littering laws and vehicle regulations in Pennsylvania. The proposed amendments would create a clearer framework for addressing violations, thus improving community ability to mitigate litter-related issues. This legislation is expected to enhance local authorities' capacity to collect fines and potentially fund litter prevention programs using collected fees. By mandating offenders to pick up litter or illegally dumped trash, the bill aims to involve individuals in community cleanup efforts, potentially increasing community awareness and responsibility towards littering issues.

Summary

House Bill 1102 aims to amend several titles within the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance regulations concerning littering and the transportation of loads in vehicles. The bill addresses various offenses, primarily focusing on strengthening penalties related to littering on Commonwealth property and protecting waterways. By increasing the fines for littering and specifying additional community service penalties, the bill seeks to discourage littering behaviors and promote cleanliness in public spaces. Furthermore, it introduces stricter regulations for securing loads in vehicles to prevent illegal dumping on public roads and property.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1102 appears to be generally supportive among legislators focused on environmental issues and public safety. Many advocates emphasize its potential as a tool for addressing the pervasive problem of litter in both urban and rural areas. On the other hand, some opponents may voice concerns about potential overreach in enforcement measures or the implications of stricter vehicle regulations on small businesses, particularly those that may transport goods across state lines. Overall, there is a recognition of the need for more robust laws concerning littering and vehicle load security, which suggests a positive inclination towards the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 1102 primarily revolve around the enforceability of the proposed regulations and the balance between penalties and community involvement. While supporters argue for the necessity of increased fines to deter littering, critics may raise concerns about the fairness of such measures, especially in economically disadvantaged areas where individuals may struggle to pay fines. Additionally, the requirement for offenders to engage in public service, such as picking up litter, could be seen as a positive community initiative, but it also sparks debate around the adequacy of such penalties in addressing the systemic issues related to waste management and littering in Pennsylvania.