Bill > S0646

This bill restricts the application of pesticides and rodenticides at schools, pre-schools, and child care centers in Rhode Island, with significant new regulations taking effect in stages through 2026 and 2027. The bill prohibits lawn care pesticides and rodenticides on school grounds, with limited exceptions for emergency situations and applications on playing fields and playgrounds under an integrated pest management plan. Schools and child care centers will be required to provide detailed notifications to parents and guardians about any pesticide or rodenticide applications, including specific information such as the product name, EPA registration number, target pest, location, and date of application. The bill also mandates that schools submit annual reports to the Department of Education documenting pesticide and rodenticide use. Additionally, the bill establishes a task force to investigate the potential health risks of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in artificial athletic fields, with a requirement to report findings to state leadership by January 1, 2028. The bill includes provisions for proper storage of pesticide and rodenticide containers and requires educational institutions to maintain records of applications for five years. These regulations aim to reduce potential health risks to children by minimizing exposure to harmful chemicals in educational environments.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

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