Q: The city I live in charge $48 for garbage pickup 1t week. I can not opt out but a business can? Is that discrimination

A: The fees for garbage and brush pickup services, as well as the policies regarding who can opt out, are typically determined by local government regulations. The ability for businesses to opt out of such services while individuals cannot may be based on different service needs or contracts between the city and commercial entities. This distinction does not necessarily constitute discrimination in a legal sense, as discrimination typically involves unfair treatment based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, or religion.

Fees for municipal services like garbage pickup are usually set by local ordinances or agreements and can vary widely from one place to another. These fees are often meant to cover the cost of the service provided and are not generally regulated at a state or federal level, except for overarching principles of fairness and the need to provide essential services to the community.

If you're experiencing issues with the service, such as the city failing to pick up garbage or brush as scheduled, it's important to communicate these issues to your local municipal or city services department. While it might be frustrating, subtracting from your bill without authorization could lead to penalties or discontinuation of service. Instead, document your service issues and seek a resolution through the proper channels, potentially including city council meetings or direct communication with city officials. They may offer a remedy or adjust your bill if the service has not been provided as agreed.