Addabbo Bill to Combat Illegal Dumping Passes NYS Senate

Queens, NY (March 14, 2025): The New York State Senate has passed legislation (S.1187), sponsored by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., that will empower local sanitation departments to install and use security cameras to catch individuals engaged in illegal dumping. 

Illegal dumping has long been a persistent problem throughout the Senator’s district. It creates environmental hazards, unsanitary conditions that pose public health risks, and unnecessary costs for local governments. Senator Addabbo’s bill aims to address his constituent’s concerns and deter offenders by allowing sanitation departments to use video surveillance to identify violators and assist enforcement officers in issuing fines.

“This bill is in response to my constituent’s complaints and provides an important tool to help municipalities crack down on illegal dumping and hold those responsible accountable,” said Addabbo. “Too often, our neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces are treated as dumping grounds, burdening taxpayers and threatening our environment. By allowing sanitation departments to utilize security cameras, we can deter illegal activity and ensure cleaner, safer communities for everyone.”

Under the provisions of S.1187, local sanitation departments would be authorized to install surveillance cameras in known dumping hotspots. Enforcement officers can use the footage collected to identify individuals who unlawfully dispose of waste and issue fines accordingly.

Illegal dumping costs municipalities millions of dollars annually in cleanup efforts and damages residents' quality of life. The bill will help to increase enforcement, significantly reduce incidents, and deter future offenders. 

The bill now moves to the Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee for consideration. Addabbo remains optimistic about its passage and is committed to working with his colleagues to see it signed into law.