The "Rhode Island Clean Air Preservation Act" establishes a regulatory framework to prohibit atmospheric experiments and interventions, including solar radiation modification (SRM), cloud seeding, and other practices that may release harmful pollutants into the atmosphere. The act specifically addresses concerns related to Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), known as "forever chemicals."

This legislation creates a new chapter in Title 23 of the General Laws, defining relevant atmospheric activities and pollutants, and outlining the responsibilities of state authorities in regulating these practices. The Rhode Island State Police (RISP) are designated to enforce the prohibitions, with the authority to issue cease-and-desist orders for unlawful atmospheric activities. Violators of the act face significant penalties, including fines of not less than $500,000 and imprisonment for not less than five years.

The act mandates that government and military projects comply with its requirements and requires independent evaluations of irradiating infrastructure to ensure compliance with specified radiation limits. Additionally, it amends Section 30-15-7 of the General Laws to clarify the governor's powers in disaster management while removing "weather modification" from the responsibilities of state agencies involved in disaster prevention. Overall, the act aims to protect public health and the environment by preventing harmful atmospheric interventions.

Statutes affected:
405: 30-15-7