DeKalb Times

State Representative Jeff Keicher's efforts to tackle the pervasive issue of roadside trash in Illinois have seen a significant breakthrough as his bill, House Bill 4848, was unanimously passed by the Illinois House of Representatives. The bill, aimed at addressing the problem of trash blowing off waste-hauling trucks, is now set for consideration by the State Senate.

Keicher, who has been actively working on this issue for over a year, expressed his frustration with the ongoing problem, stating, "For years, I’ve been frustrated with the trash that’s been windblown from waste haulers going from transfer stations to landfills through our communities." He emphasized the safety hazards and damage caused to local farmers' fields by the blowing trash.

House Bill 4848, according to Keicher, will enhance regulations regarding how waste hauling trucks secure their loads and impose stricter fines on violators to hold companies accountable. The legislation introduces a minimum $150 fine per violation for truck drivers and trucking companies, with provisions for fines collected to be utilized by local governments for cleanup efforts.

Sheriff Andy Sullivan of DeKalb County, who has been actively involved in enforcing current laws related to trash disposal, highlighted the detrimental impact of trash on farmers, stating, "Trash blowing from garbage haulers is a major problem, particularly for our farmers." Sullivan underscored the additional resources and time farmers have to invest in cleaning up debris and repairing equipment due to the litter issue.

Local farmer and Vice President of the Kane County Farm Bureau, Dale Pitstick, echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the environmental and operational challenges posed by trash flying off waste trucks. Pitstick emphasized the need for increased awareness and policy changes to effectively address the issue.

With the unanimous passage of HB 4848 in the House, Keicher is optimistic about the bill's prospects in the State Senate and eventual approval by the Governor. The legislation is poised to bring about significant improvements in curbing roadside trash problems, benefiting communities and farmers across Illinois.