DeKalb Times

The persistent issue of trash being blown off waste-hauling trucks, causing both environmental and safety concerns, is set to be addressed by a new legislation developed by State Representative Jeff Keicher (R-Sycamore) and State Senator Erica Harriss (R-Glen Carbon). The problem has not only marred the aesthetics of many communities but also inflicted damage on farmers' operations and fields.

House Bill 4848 has successfully passed through the Illinois State Senate unanimously, following its unanimous advancement through the Illinois House. It now awaits the Governor's signature to be enacted into law.

Keicher expressed his long-standing frustration with this issue, 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. Besides the litter problem, trash blowing off waste trucks is a safety hazard, and it is damaging local farmers’ fields and equipment."

He further explained that House Bill 4848 aims to strengthen existing requirements for how waste hauling trucks must cover their loads. It also seeks to hold companies accountable through an updated violation and fine process.

Under current law, truck drivers face nominal fines for failing to secure their load properly and allowing debris to fly off. The new legislation proposed by Keicher and Harriss would impose a $150 fine per violation on the truck driver. Additionally, it would introduce fines of $150 per violation for the trucking company that owns the trailer. The bill also outlines a process for distributing collected fines to local governments for necessary clean-up operations.

Senator Harriss emphasized the importance of this legislation in addressing safety and environmental concerns. She said, “Trash flying out the back of a truck not only creates a serious safety concern for those traveling up and down our roads, but it also creates an environmental concern.”

With House Bill 4848 having unanimously passed both houses of the General Assembly, Keicher and Harriss are hopeful that it will soon be signed into law by the Governor.

Representative Keicher serves the 70th District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Kane, and McHenry Counties. Senator Harriss serves the 56th District, which includes portions of Madison and St. Clair counties.