HAMMOND, La. (AP) - People caught littering in one New Orleans-area parish will have to pay in both money and time, by picking up trash.
The Hammond Star reports that a first offense will bring a $75 fine plus 12 hours of community service in a litter abatement program, with a $500 fine and 24 hours picking up litter for a second offense.
The Tangipahoa (tan-jih-puh-HO-uh) Parish Council changed the ordinance Monday.
Until now, first-time litterers could choose between a $75 fine and eight hours of community service, with a choice between $500 and 16 hours for a second offense.
Parish Litter Coordinator Ginger Tastet says the parish has been lax about enforcing the ordinance, but that is going to change.
Tangipahoa Parish is northwest of New Orleans on Lake Pontchartrain.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.