WASHINGTON -
In a move to crack down on litter, D.C. Councilmember Jim Graham is targeting those flyers that many people find on their vehicle windshield.
Many of those leaflets end up on the ground and are causing many residents to complain. Graham says that he hears from residents and business owners who are tired of cleaning up the mess.
Graham proposed a law that would fine those who place the flyers on windshields. He said he thinks its time to discuss the issue during a public forum.
Graham's legislation could face a legal challenge. Some believe that fining someone for placing flyers on windshields could be unconstitutional.
"A number of federal courts have looked at this very issue in places that have enacted laws banning leafleting on cars," says Arthur Spitzer of the ACLU. "Three out of the four appeals courts says that law violates the First Amendment. One of the courts thought it was OK."
