This bill mandates the establishment of a system by the Department of Environmental Management to track the chain of custody for artificial turf installed on sports and playing fields in Rhode Island. It requires custodians of artificial turf to report specific information regarding the turf's installation, including its geographic location, custodian and producer details, and the turf's characteristics, to the department by January 1, 2026, or within 30 days of installation, whichever is later.
If the artificial turf is removed, the new custodian must provide updated chain of custody information, including the new geographic location, custodian details, and how the turf will be used at its new location. The chain of custody information must be reported in writing and in a form required by the department.
The Department of Environmental Management will serve as the repository for this information and maintain it permanently. A publicly accessible website will be developed by July 1, 2027, which will include the chain of custody information and the names and contact information of each custodian that provided the information.
Violations of the reporting requirements may result in civil penalties of up to $5,000, but penalties will only be imposed after a written notice of violation is issued. Overall, the act aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the management of artificial turf throughout its lifecycle.