This bill amends existing laws concerning the application of pesticides and rodenticides in schools, pre-schools, and child care centers in Rhode Island. It prohibits the application of any lawn care pesticide or rodenticide on the grounds of public or private pre-schools and schools with students in grade twelve (12) or lower, effective July 1, 2027, with exceptions for emergency situations and applications on playing fields and playgrounds pursuant to an integrated pest management plan developed by the departments of environmental management and health. The bill specifically prohibits the use of any pesticide or rodenticide containing the herbicide glyphosate.

The legislation requires that only licensed or certified commercial applicators may apply pesticides and rodenticides on school grounds, effective January 1, 2027. Schools must provide parents and guardians with written notice of pesticide and rodenticide applications, including detailed information about the substances used and the timing of these applications. Additionally, schools are required to submit a copy of the pesticide or rodenticide application notice sent to parents and guardians to the department of education.

A task force will be established by the departments of environmental management and health to investigate the health risks associated with poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in artificial athletic fields, with findings due by January 1, 2029. The bill also outlines requirements for the secure storage of unused pesticides and rodenticides to prevent environmental contamination and public health risks.

The act will take effect upon passage, with various provisions phased in over the next few years to enhance safety and transparency regarding pesticide and rodenticide use in educational settings. The regulations developed pursuant to the provisions of this section shall be adopted and implemented no later than January 1, 2027.