RI S2796

Department of Environmental Management must establish a tracking system for chain of custody of artificial turf installed on sports and playing fields in Rhode Island, covering transportation, installation, removal, reuse, recycling, and final disposal.

Custodians of artificial turf fields (at least 5,000 square feet) must report installation details to the department by January 1, 2027 or within 30 days of installation, including location, producer information, turf type and composition, weight, and proximity to surface water bodies.

When artificial turf is removed and transferred, the new custodian must report updated chain of custody information including the new location, transporter details, and how the turf will be used (recycled, disposed, or reinstalled).

Department must develop and maintain a publicly accessible website by July 1, 2028 displaying all chain of custody information and custodian contact details, and must permanently maintain these records.

Violations of reporting requirements are subject to civil penalties up to $5,000, but only after a written notice of violation is first issued.