The bill amends Section 23-25-4 of the General Laws in Chapter 23-25, "Pesticide Control," by introducing new definitions for first and second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides. It prohibits the sale of first-generation anticoagulant rodenticides in consumer and online retail stores starting March 1, 2026, and second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides beginning January 1, 2027. Furthermore, the use of these rodenticides will be restricted from January 1, 2028, with exceptions for public health activities, the protection of drinking water supplies, control of vectors for mosquito-borne illnesses, eradication of non-native invasive species of rodents, and control of documented rodent infestations where other alternatives are inadequate.

In addition, the bill establishes a new chapter titled "Rodent Integrated Pest Management Pilot Program Act," which allows municipalities to create voluntary pest management pilot programs aimed at controlling rodent populations through integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. These programs will involve designated rodent mitigation zones, controlled comparison areas, and inspections to monitor rodent activity. Municipal departments will oversee the tracking of interventions and report on the program's effectiveness, costs, and challenges. The pilot programs must start by July 1, 2026, and last for at least twelve months, with a report due three months after completion. An Integrated Pest Management Fund will be created to support these initiatives, with the Department of Environmental Management responsible for administration and regulation. The provisions of this chapter will expire on October 1, 2028, unless extended by the General Assembly.

Statutes affected:
651: 23-25-4
651  SUB A: 23-25-4