Bill > H5492

This bill creates the Microplastics Reduction Act to address the growing environmental and health concerns surrounding microplastics, which are tiny synthetic polymer particles less than 5 millimeters in size. The bill prohibits manufacturers from selling products containing intentionally added synthetic polymer microparticles starting January 1, 2029, with exemptions for products preempted by federal law. It requires the Department of Environmental Management, in consultation with the Department of Health, to develop a comprehensive microplastics testing plan for water, soil, and other environmental media, to be updated every 24 months. Additionally, the department must create a statewide microplastics strategy plan by January 1, 2029, which will characterize ambient microplastic concentrations, investigate sources and environmental impacts, review scientific research on reduction approaches, and provide recommendations for policy changes. The bill is motivated by research showing significant microplastic pollution, such as the estimated 1,000 tons of microplastics in Narragansett Bay's bottom sediment, and the potential health risks of microplastic exposure through direct contact, ingestion, and inhalation. The legislation aims to better understand and ultimately reduce microplastic pollution in the environment.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

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