This bill mandates the establishment of a system by the Department of Environmental Management to track the chain of custody for artificial turf installed on sports and playing fields in the state. It requires custodians of artificial turf to report specific information regarding the turf's installation, including its geographic location, custodian details, producer information, and the turf's characteristics, to the department by January 1, 2026, or within 30 days of installation, whichever is later.
If the artificial turf is removed, the new custodian must report updated chain of custody information, including the new location and usage of the turf. The chain of custody information must be reported in writing and in a form required by the department. The Department of Environmental Management will serve as the repository for this information and maintain it permanently, with a publicly accessible website to be developed by July 1, 2027, that includes the chain of custody information and the names and contact information of each custodian.
Violations of the reporting requirements may result in civil penalties of up to $5,000, but penalties will only be imposed after a written notice of violation is issued. Overall, the act aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of artificial turf throughout its lifecycle, from installation to disposal.