Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced on April 22 a second round of funding through the “Shine a Light on Dumpers” initiative, providing an additional $1 million in grants to help local communities clean up illegal dump sites and prevent future dumping.
The announcement comes as part of Earth Day efforts to address environmental concerns in Ohio. The initiative aims to support local governments with resources needed for cleanup and prevention, reflecting ongoing demand across the state.
“Local governments made it clear that they needed this program, and we listened,” Yost said. “Illegal dumping is unacceptable, plain and simple. These grants help communities fight back, and Earth Day is the right time to double down on those efforts.”
According to the press release, local governments are eligible to apply for up to $100,000 for cleaning up illegal dump sites and up to $20,000 for preventive measures such as signs, gates, and barriers. The funding is sourced from settlement dollars secured by the Environmental Enforcement Section of Yost’s office. The application period opens immediately and will continue through July 31 or until funds run out. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis with awards expected by the end of 2026.
In addition to grant funding, the Environmental Enforcement team will conduct trainings for law enforcement officers and municipal officials focused on investigating and deterring illegal dumping during this application period.
The Shine a Light on Dumpers initiative began in 2023 with an approach that includes enforcement support, public education, equipment resources, and grant opportunities. In its first year of operation in 2025, it supported 31 projects throughout Ohio.
According to the official website, Dave Yost leads the Ohio Attorney General’s Office as attorney general while Jonathan Blanton serves as first assistant attorney general overseeing legal operations. The office provides services across Ohio through headquarters in Columbus along with regional offices statewide. Its responsibilities include safeguarding residents via law enforcement support, consumer protection efforts, state representation in legal matters as well as enforcing regulations.
