Bill > H5195

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for reducing solid waste in Rhode Island by creating a Compost Fund and implementing a $2 per ton solid waste disposal surcharge. The legislation aims to address the state's landfill capacity issues by encouraging composting, waste diversion, and recycling through two primary grant programs: a Competitive Composting and Waste Diversion Grant Fund and a Municipal Waste Diversion Grant Fund. Each fund will receive 50% of the surcharge revenues, with funds supporting projects like developing composting infrastructure, food waste prevention, community clean-ups, and supporting small businesses and farmers in waste reduction efforts. The bill highlights that approximately one-third of materials in Rhode Island's central landfill are compostable and that the landfill is expected to be full by 2043. Key provisions include establishing a solid waste disposal surcharge mechanism, creating special non-lapsing funds administered by the Office of the General Treasurer, and requiring annual reporting to the general assembly on grant impacts, including job creation, waste diversion, and compost utilization. The surcharge will be adjusted every five years based on the consumer price index or inflation, and the bill emphasizes supporting diverse, equitable, and community-oriented waste reduction initiatives. The legislation is aligned with Rhode Island's 2021 Act on Climate and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

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