The bill introduces the "2025 Battery-Powered Leaf Blower Pilot Rebate and Education Program" to promote the use of zero-emissions leaf blowers by commercial landscapers in Rhode Island. The program aims to mitigate air and noise pollution and improve the health of workers and the community. It establishes a pilot rebate program, managed by the Office of Energy Resources (OER), with an initial funding of $350,000. Professional landscapers can receive up to $1,500 for the purchase of an e-blower and related batteries, limited to two rebates per business. The rebate is contingent upon the disposal of a gas-powered leaf blower and excludes nonprofit and government entities. Participants must be at least 18 years old and registered businesses in Rhode Island. The program includes a bi-annual usage survey and is scheduled to run from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026, with the OER having the authority to amend or terminate the program.

Additionally, the bill allocates $50,000 for an education program to train landscapers on the use of battery-powered equipment. The curriculum will cover the health and environmental impacts of gas-powered equipment, the technology of electric landscaping tools, battery management, financial considerations, strategies for operating a battery-powered landscaping business, and low-impact practices. The OER, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), will ensure the program's promotion and accessibility in multiple languages. Information will be available on the OER and DEM websites, and the act will become effective immediately upon passage.