Requires the producer of artificial turf and turf infill sold or distributed in RI to report its chain of custody, from installation to use, repurposing, recycling and disposal to the department of environmental management.

Plain-English Summary

This bill would require companies that make and sell artificial turf and turf infill (the material placed underneath or mixed into artificial grass surfaces) in Rhode Island to track and report what happens to their products throughout their entire lifespan. Specifically, manufacturers would need to document and share information with the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) covering the full journey of the product — from when it is first installed, through its years of use, and eventually when it is repurposed, recycled, or thrown away.

The goal of this reporting requirement is to give the state a clearer picture of where artificial turf products end up and how they are disposed of. This matters because artificial turf — particularly older versions containing crumb rubber made from recycled tires — has raised environmental and health concerns, including questions about chemicals leaching into soil and waterways. By requiring producers to maintain and submit this chain-of-custody information, state officials would have better data to assess any potential environmental risks.

This bill primarily affects companies that manufacture or distribute artificial turf products sold in Rhode Island. It would also have indirect effects on schools, municipalities, sports facilities, and other locations that use artificial turf fields, since the information about those installations would be part of the tracking system. Everyday Rhode Islanders living near fields or relying on local water supplies could potentially benefit from the increased transparency.

As of now, the bill has been referred to the House Environment and Natural Resources Committee and is scheduled for a hearing in January 2026, though it has been recommended to be held for further study, meaning it has not yet advanced toward a vote.