BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 274

By: Miles

Urban Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

According to interested parties, illegal dumping has become an increasingly prevalent crime in many parts of the state. In addition to the discarded items being dangerous, the piles formed by the items are unsightly and attract pests such as mosquitos, rats, and snakes, and often remain in one location until residents report the site to the political subdivision responsible for trash collection. Illegal dumping is especially problematic in residential neighborhoods with increased traffic flow, pedestrian activity, and children playing. H.B. 274 aims to serve as a deterrent against illegal dumping by increasing maximum applicable fines.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 274 amends the Local Government Code, Government Code, and Code of Criminal Procedure to raise from $2,000 to $4,000 the cap on a fine or penalty for the violation of a municipal rule, ordinance, or police regulation that governs the dumping of refuse.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.