A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT to establish "hero crews" to combat the increase in roadside litter and debris plaguing the state.
Whereas, North Carolina is a scenic State from the mountains to the coast, with over 79,000 miles of roads and highways comprising the largest system of state‑maintained roads in the nation; and
Whereas, North Carolinians take pride in their State; and
Whereas, an ever‑mounting increase in roadside litter and debris is spoiling the State's scenic beauty and threatens the State's image and prosperity; and
Whereas, many citizens voluntarily participate in roadside cleanup efforts, and they should be commended for that service; and
Whereas, there is an unemployment crisis in this State, with many citizens in need of work; and
Whereas, it is in the best interest of the State to maintain clean and safe roads and highways as well as to help provide employment opportunities; and
Whereas, the creation of "Hero Crews" employed to combat roadside litter will be a step toward both cleaner roads and more employment; and
Whereas, the Department of Transportation has funding for the purpose of keeping State roads and highways safe which can be used for the purpose of funding the Hero Crews; and
Whereas, because the Hero Crew employees will be instrumental in preserving the scenic beauty of North Carolina, that name is only fitting; Now, therefore,
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  The Department of Transportation shall establish the "Hero Crew" jobs program from available funds. The purpose of the Hero Crew program is to provide for the cleanup, conservation, and safety of the State's roadways. Hero Crew members shall be temporary State employees compensated at rates to be determined by the Secretary of the Department of Transportation.
SECTION 2.  This act is effective when it becomes law.