Queens, NY (February 6, 2026) - The New York State Senate passed legislation (S.1187) sponsored by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., to permit local sanitation departments to install and use security cameras to help enforcement officers identify and fine individuals who have engaged in illegal dumping.

“This is an environmental issue, a public health issue, and a quality-of-life issue,” said Addabbo. “Illegal dumping degrades our neighborhoods and disrespects the communities that residents work hard to maintain. My bill gives local governments the tools they need to protect the character of their communities while promoting cleaner, safer public spaces. I want to thank my constituents who raised this issue with me and became the originators of this bill,” concluded Addabbo.

Illegal dumping poses serious environmental risks, threatens public health, and undermines the character and cleanliness of neighborhoods. By allowing municipalities to responsibly deploy surveillance cameras in dumping hotspots, this legislation provides local governments with a practical, targeted tool to deter illegal activity and hold violators accountable. Communities impacted by dumping often bear repeated financial and environmental costs, diverting resources that could otherwise be invested in essential services.

Addabbo said he likes this bill because it is constituent-driven, developed in direct response to concerns raised by residents who have long struggled with recurring illegal dumping despite cleanup efforts and enforcement challenges. Complaints of individuals dumping household trash both inside and next to trash bins on the sidewalk, resulting in undesirable odors and presenting a serious quality-of-life issue in the community.

Under this legislation, authorized municipal agencies may use surveillance cameras in accordance with local laws and privacy protections, ensuring the technology is used responsibly and solely for enforcement related to illegal dumping.

The bill now advances to the Assembly for consideration.