This bill amends existing laws regarding pesticide and rodenticide applications in schools, pre-schools, and child care centers in Rhode Island. It introduces regulations to restrict the use of hazardous pesticides and rodenticides, including a prohibition on any product containing the herbicide glyphosate. The bill mandates that the Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health develop and implement these regulations by January 1, 2026.

Starting July 1, 2026, no lawn care pesticides or rodenticides may be applied on the grounds of public or private schools, including day care, charter, and vocational schools, with students in grade twelve or lower, except in emergencies or on playing fields and playgrounds under an integrated pest management plan. This plan must be consistent with the model pest control management plan developed by the Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health, and may be developed by a local district or regional school board with their approval.

Schools are required to provide prior notice of pesticide and rodenticide applications to parents and guardians, and maintain a registry of those who request such notifications. Additionally, schools must submit reports on pesticide and rodenticide applications to the Department of Education starting January 1, 2026, which will include details of the applications and any emergency applications made during the previous year.

The bill also establishes a task force to investigate the health risks associated with polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in artificial athletic fields at schools, with findings due by January 1, 2028. The act aims to enhance the safety and health of students by regulating pesticide use and addressing potential environmental hazards in school settings.