Instead of enforcing litter fines, tax food and drink packages

I read with interest Patricia Keller’s letter to the editor in IndyStar on raising the fines for littering.

While enforcement of existing littering laws would be helpful, I’m not sure raising the fine would be much of a deterrent. I feel like our law enforcement officers are already busy enough with more serious crimes throughout the city, county and even the state. Instead of penalizing after the fact, I think it would be more beneficial to hit consumers beforehand: in their wallets with a new tax on convenience type package purchases.

As a frequent runner, bicyclist, and walker/hiker throughout Marion County, I have first-hand experience with trash on our streets and trails. The majority of it is fast food bags and drinks.

Why not create a new tax on consumers of both of these types of purchases? Any carryout food purchase (whether from a fast food or a sit-down restaurant) or any purchase of a convenience-sized item from any business could have this new tax applied. The tax would serve two purposes: to possibly deter individuals from purchasing these items due to the higher cost and the revenue could be used by counties to provide more waste management services.

Yes, many will complain that this will unfairly place a greater burden on lower income individuals and families, many who live in food deserts and rely on these types of businesses for much of their nourishment. I don’t disagree. And, no, this will not stop all littering, and it doesn’t address 100% of the trash. Sadly, this discussion shouldn’t be taking place at all. Everyone knows it’s wrong to litter, period.

It would be great if more businesses offered recycling options in their business with easy-to-understand instructions on what is recyclable and what isn’t. If you want to avoid the tax, take your own containers instead of getting a to-go doggie bag and don’t purchase single-serve convenience sized items from establishments that sell them. Buy in bulk and use your own portable containers to transport food/drink.

And for Pete’s sake: put your trash in trash receptacles or put it in your own trash can.

Kerry Bishop lives in Indianapolis.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Instead of enforcing litter fines, tax food and drink packages