This bill amends several sections of the General Laws in Chapter 16-111, which pertains to "School Waste Recycling and Refuse Disposal." Key provisions include the introduction of definitions for terms such as "educational entity" and "sharing table," which establishes designated areas in school cafeterias for students and staff to place unopened and safe food items for redistribution. The bill mandates that educational entities conduct waste audits every three years, starting January 1, 2027, and report the results to the Rhode Island Department of Education.

Additionally, it requires educational entities to implement waste collection systems and mandates that any request for proposal (RFP) or invitation for bid (IFB) for food service must only use vendors who recycle organic waste. The bill emphasizes the importance of food donations by food service vendors, requiring them to provide an annual report detailing the amount of unserved nonperishable or unspoiled perishable food donated and any tax deductions or credits utilized due to these donations.

Furthermore, the bill establishes rules for the recycling of organic waste generated by educational entities, with a requirement that organic waste be recycled at authorized composting or anaerobic digestion facilities starting January 1, 2029. It also directs the commissioner to promulgate rules and regulations related to school waste disposal and refuse disposal policies by January 1, 2027. The legislation aims to promote sustainability and reduce food waste in Rhode Island schools.

Statutes affected:
2438: 23-18.9-17, 16-22-35
2438  SUB A: 23-18.9-17, 16-22-35