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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Victoria L. Stanish |
State Rep. Joe Petrarca |
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House passes Petrarca bill creating penalty for dumping
methamphetamine waste
HARRISBURG, April 23 – State Rep. Joe Petrarca, D-Westmoreland/Armstrong, said the House on Monday unanimously passed his legislation that would make dumping methamphetamine waste a criminal act in Pennsylvania.
Under the legislation (H.B. 675), illegally dumping any substance, chemical waste or debris used in or resulting from the manufacture of methamphetamine would be a third-degree felony, which carries a maximum fine of $15,000 and a jail sentence of up to seven years.
Methamphetamine, or “meth,” is an extremely addictive stimulant that is easily manufactured by using common household chemicals and equipment, as well as over-the-counter medications containing pseudoephedrine.
Certain chemicals involved in its manufacture make the production of meth extremely dangerous, with potential hazards including fire, explosions, release of toxic gases and accumulation of chemical waste from the production process.
“Illegal meth labs are a growing problem in the state, particularly in western Pa. and in rural areas. They’re dangerous not only because they produce a highly addictive drug, but also because meth cookers often contaminate water sources by dumping the waste down drains, on the ground or into streams and rivers,” Petrarca said.
“We need to make meth waste dumping a crime so we can prosecute offenders and help protect the public.”
Petrarca said for every few ounces of meth produced, 6 pounds or more of toxic waste byproduct results.
The legislation now goes to the state Senate for consideration.
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