Improper disposal of used surgical masks and gloves—used by residents to protect others and themselves from potentially spreading coronavirus—will officially be illegal and punishable by a fine or jail time under a new ordinance introduced at the July 13 council meeting.
The ordinance is up for a public hearing Aug. 10.
Moreover, the ordinance sets maximum penalties of up to $2,000 or 90 days in jail, said Borough Attorney Kenneth Poller July 13.
“Any used masks and gloves are potentially soiled/contaminated and could be transmitters of Covid-19. All litter must be viewed in this manner and especially discarded personal protective equipment (PPE),” Council Vice President Arthur Cumming told Pascack Press.
Cumming noted Councilwoman Desserie Morgan initially mentioned concerns about masks and gloves littering the parking lot of a local supermarket. This led to suggestions for an amendment to the littering ordinance, he said.
Township officials unanimously introduced 5–0 an amendment to local littering code that would require those charged with littering of surgical masks or gloves to have a mandatory court appearance.
Councilwoman Morgan said she felt the ordinance was necessary due to the continuing Covid-19 pandemic.
“Because of the hazard that it [improper disposal] poses, I think it’s fair,” she said.
However, Councilman Steven Cascio said he didn’t like singling out specific types of litter.
“Waste is waste whether it’s a glove, mask or piece of candy wrapper,” he said.
He described the ordinance as a “little overreaching.”
“Again, you can’t legislate good behavior,” he added.
Council Vice President Arthur Cumming said the amendment is “trying to address a new problem in a new situation the best that we can and I think we’ve answered the questions and concerns.”