MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Litter continues to be an issue along Alabama roadways, and the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) has launched an anti-litter campaign that highlights the recent increase in litter fines and penalties.
ALDOT spent almost $7 million last year to clean up litter along the roadways. To deter littering, the Alabama Legislature increased littering fines in 2019.
For those caught dropping trash on Alabama, the fines 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.
“Trash Costs Cash,” is the title of a public service announcement produced by ALDOT that is running on television and radio stations statewide and on social media sites like Facebook and YouTube. The PSA highlights the high cost of littering fines, challenging people to think about those costs before throwing out their fast-food wrapper.
Roadside litter includes, but is not limited to:
- Fast food trash
- Beverage containers, such as tin cans or plastic bottles,
- Cigarette butts
- Tires
“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.”
There are many ways that residents can help keep Alabama beautiful:
- 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.
ALDOT partners with PALS, Keep Alabama Beautiful and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to help keep Alabama litter-free.
ALDOT’s mission is to provide a safe, efficient, environmentally sound transportation network across Alabama.
