Bill > A04374

This bill amends the environmental conservation law to establish stricter regulations and penalties for illegal dumping on public property. It defines "dumping" as throwing, depositing, or placing refuse, trash, garbage, rubbish, litter, or offensive matter in unauthorized areas, and specifically prohibits dumping on sidewalks, streets, lots, parks, public places, wharves, piers, docks, and other publicly owned spaces. The legislation imposes escalating financial penalties, with a $500 fine for a first offense and a $1,000 fine for subsequent offenses. Additionally, if site clean-up is required, the offender will be responsible for covering all expenses related to cleaning or decontaminating the dumping site. To encourage reporting, the bill introduces a reward system where witnesses who provide evidence (such as video footage or vehicle license plate information) leading to a fine can receive a monetary reward at the commissioner's discretion. This approach aims to deter illegal dumping and promote environmental cleanliness by creating both financial consequences for offenders and incentives for community reporting.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4374