Victor Valley Times

In a recent development, Sen. Scott Wilk's legislation to combat illegal dumping has been approved in the Senate Public Safety Committee. Senator Wilk expressed his concerns about the issue, stating, “The High Desert has been treated as a dump for too long, but it’s not a dump. It is home to families and vibrant communities, who are routinely disrespected by outsiders destroying their neighborhoods all for a quick buck.”

The approved Senate Bill 1359 (SB 1359) aims to address the problem by requiring a permit for any private property dumping, with or without the owner’s permission. Additionally, it increases mandatory fines for each violation and upgrades illegal dumping from an infraction to a misdemeanor.

Illegal waste dumping in the High Desert has been a persistent issue for decades, fueled by a loophole that waste haulers and property owners exploit for financial gain. Senator Wilk highlighted the negative impacts of this practice, such as loud noise, air pollution, damaged roads, and environmental contamination.

Senator Wilk emphasized the importance of closing this exploitative loophole and imposing stricter penalties with SB 1359. He stated, “Enough is enough. You will be held accountable. Let’s clean up our communities, protect their health and wellbeing, and show people what a beautiful place this area truly is.”

This legislative milestone signifies a step towards combating illegal dumping in the High Desert and ensuring the protection of its residents and environment.