Cigarette Littering Bill Headed To Jindal For Signature

A bill that increases the penalty for throwing cigarette butts out of car windows has received final legislative approval and now heads to Gov. Bobby Jindal's desk for signature.

The measure is by Marrero Rep. Patrick Connick.

Program Services and Affiliates Coordinator for Keep Louisiana Beautiful Sarah Kelley said the attention this bill has gotten has been great.

"We love that everyone is talking about it because, I mean, litter doesn't always make the front page," Kelley said. "But it is a very important issue for us — for the next generation."

The legislation increases first-offense cigarette littering fines from $250 to $300 and keeps the community service penalties in place.

Kelley said while the passage of the law is great, the next step is vitally important.

"Laws are great, but we really need them to be enforced before we can see some tangible results in our community," Kelley said.