Bill > S0324

This bill creates a comprehensive public education program on textile recycling in Rhode Island, addressing the state's environmental challenges and landfill capacity issues. Recognizing that approximately 28,860 tons of textiles are currently being sent to landfills, the legislation requires the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to collaborate with the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation to develop an educational outreach program. This program will inform residential households and commercial businesses about the importance of textile recycling and proper recycling methods. Starting in January 2028, private entities involved in textile collection will be required to submit annual reports on the total tonnage of textiles collected, which the DEM will use to establish benchmark goals for textile collection. The bill defines textiles broadly as clothing, footwear, bedding, towels, curtains, and similar fabric products, excluding those contaminated with hazardous substances. By June 1, 2026, the DEM must develop and publish regulations related to textile waste collection and recycling, with the authority to enforce these regulations and potentially levy fines. The ultimate goal is to reduce the amount of textiles unnecessarily ending up in landfills and promote more sustainable waste management practices.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://status.rilegislature.gov/