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, along with information on any tax deductions or credits utilized due to these donations. Non-compliance will result in a fine of $1,000 per violation and disqualification from future contracts.
Additionally, the bill introduces "sharing tables" in school cafeterias, where students can place and take appropriate food items, thereby reducing waste and addressing food insecurity. It allows for the donation of food not taken by students to food banks or nonprofit organizations. The bill specifies that food made available to students or donated must comply with safety standards outlined in the Rhode Island food code.
The legislation emphasizes the requirement for educational entities to recycle organic waste generated on their premises, with a phased approach: organic waste must be recycled at an authorized facility starting January 1, 2028. The commissioner is directed to promulgate rules and regulations to implement these changes by January 1, 2026. Furthermore, the bill includes educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about litter prevention and recycling among public school students, including elementary, middle, and high school students. Overall, the legislation seeks to promote sustainability and responsible waste management practices within Rhode Island's educational institutions.
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