Bill > S0863

This bill requires producers of artificial turf and turf infill in Rhode Island to track and report the complete lifecycle of their products, from installation through disposal. Specifically, the bill mandates that custodians (including owners of sports fields, schools, and athletic facilities) must report detailed information about their artificial turf to the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), including the location, size, weight, installation date, producer, and installer. When artificial turf is moved or removed, the new custodian must also report updated information about its new location and use. The DEM will be responsible for creating a publicly accessible website by July 1, 2027, that will permanently maintain this chain of custody information. The bill defines artificial turf as synthetic grass-like surfaces of at least 5,000 square feet used primarily for sports or playing fields, and includes provisions for tracking both the turf and its infill materials. Violations of these reporting requirements can result in civil penalties up to $5,000, with a written notice required before any penalty is imposed. The legislation aims to improve transparency and environmental tracking of artificial turf products throughout Rhode Island.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

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