The bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 16-111, titled "School Waste Recycling and Refuse Disposal," to enhance waste management practices in educational entities across Rhode Island. Key provisions include the requirement for educational entities to conduct waste audits every three years, starting January 1, 2026, and to report the results to the Rhode Island Department of Education, which will publish the results on its website. The bill mandates that food service vendors provide an annual report detailing the amount of unserved nonperishable or unspoiled perishable food donated, and establishes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and disqualification from future contracts.

Additionally, it introduces the concept of "sharing tables" in school cafeterias, where students can place and take appropriate food items, thereby reducing waste and food insecurity. The bill allows for the donation of food that is not taken by students to food banks or nonprofit organizations. It emphasizes the requirement for educational entities to source food from local vendors and mandates that organic waste materials generated by educational entities be recycled at authorized facilities starting January 1, 2028.

The legislation also directs the commissioner to promulgate rules and regulations regarding school waste disposal and recycling policies, which must be established by January 1, 2026. Furthermore, it includes provisions for litter prevention and recycling awareness programs to educate public school students, including elementary, middle, and high school students, within the state. Overall, the legislation aims to improve waste management, promote sustainability, and support local food banks while ensuring compliance through various reporting and regulatory measures.

Statutes affected:
5422: 23-18.9-17, 16-22-35
5422  SUB A: 23-18.9-17, 16-22-35
5422  SUB A as amended: 23-18.9-17, 16-22-35