This bill amends existing laws regarding pesticide and rodenticide applications in schools, pre-schools, and child care centers in Rhode Island. It introduces regulations to restrict the use of hazardous pesticides and rodenticides, including a prohibition on any containing glyphosate. The bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health develop and implement these regulations by January 1, 2026.

Starting July 1, 2026, no lawn care pesticides or rodenticides may be applied on the grounds of public or private schools, including day care, charter, and vocational schools, with students in grade twelve or lower, except in emergencies or on playing fields and playgrounds under an integrated pest management plan. This plan must be consistent with the model pest control management plan developed by the Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health, and may be developed by a local district or regional school board with their approval.

Schools are required to provide prior notice of pesticide and rodenticide applications to parents and guardians, and maintain a registry of those who request such notifications. Additionally, schools must submit pesticide or rodenticide application reports to the Department of Education, detailing the pesticides used, the dates and times of application, the name and title of the applicator, any emergency applications, and copies of notices sent to parents.

The bill also establishes a task force to investigate the health risks associated with poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in artificial athletic fields at schools, with findings to be reported by January 1, 2028. The act is set to take effect upon passage.