STAND. COM. REP. NO. 2626
Honolulu, Hawaii
President of the Senate
State of Hawaii
Sir:
Your Committee on Agriculture and Environment, to which was referred S.B. No. 2051 entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO LITTERING,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose and intent of this measure is to:
(1) Increase the maximum civil penalty for littering from $500 to $1,000; and
(2) Increase the maximum fine for the offense of criminal littering from $1,000 to $5,000.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from Surfrider Oahu and three individuals.
Your Committee finds that littering is costly, portrays a negative picture of an area, and is dangerous to the environment. Litter can cause physical harm and injury, especially needles, broken glass, highway debris, and improperly disposed of cigarette butts that may spark fires. Littering can also contribute to the spread of disease and pollute the environment as toxic chemicals leach into waterways and soils; furthermore, litter can kill wildlife. Your Committee finds that littering fines must be increased to reflect the seriousness of the offense and demonstrate the State's commitment to protecting the natural environment.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Agriculture and Environment that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 2051 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be referred to your Committee on Judiciary.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Agriculture and Environment,
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________________________________ MIKE GABBARD, Chair |
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