From The Tribune staff reports
MONTGOMERY — The punishment for littering in Alabama is on the rise.
To combat a growing concern across the state, the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has launched an anti-litter campaign known as “Trash Costs Cash,” which will run on television and radio stations statewide and on social media sites like Facebook and YouTube.
According to ALDOT, the fines issued to those caught littering have doubled. The minimum fine is now $500, up from $250 for a first conviction. The second conviction is $1,000 and up to 100 hours community service.
“Litter can harm our environment and have a negative impact on road safety and the natural beauty of our state,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator, ALDOT. “If we each play our part in keeping our state clean, we won’t be impacted by the rising litter fines. More ALDOT funding can be spent on improving the roads we drive instead of litter pickup.”
ALDOT has provided a list for residents to consider in the future:
- Dispose of trash properly
- Never throw anything out of the vehicle window
- Carry a small trash bag in your vehicle to dispose of trash
- Properly secure loads when hauling loose items
- Volunteer with People Against a Littered State (PALS) and apply to Adopt-A-Mile.