Rhode Island Senate Bill S0644

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/7/25
• Report Pass: 5/28/25
• Engrossed: 6/3/25
• Enrolled: 6/17/25
• Passed: 6/24/25

Caption

Strikes the words "which is naturally occurring" with regard to any promulgated rules and regulations of the department of environmental management (DEM) relating to the remediation of arsenic.

Impact

The impact of this bill is significant as it alters how hazardous waste, particularly arsenic, is managed within the state. By removing the exemption for naturally occurring arsenic, it places a greater responsibility on the DEM to address potential environmental health threats associated with this substance. Critics argue that the change could lead to unnecessary remediation efforts in areas where arsenic levels are low and could strain state resources, while proponents believe it upholds public safety and health standards.

Summary

Bill S0644 pertains to the management of hazardous waste in Rhode Island. Specifically, the bill proposes to amend the existing statutes regarding the remediation of arsenic by striking the phrase 'which is naturally occurring' from the regulations promulgated by the Department of Environmental Management (DEM). This change means that the DEM would no longer be able to exempt areas with naturally occurring arsenic levels—below nineteen parts per million—from remediation efforts. The intent behind this is to enhance public health and safety by ensuring that all hazardous waste, regardless of its natural occurrence, is subject to appropriate management and remediation.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding S0644 may include discussions on balancing environmental protection with economic considerations in remediation processes. Stakeholders from environmental advocacy groups are likely to support the bill for its aim to improve community health, while some industry representatives may express concerns about increased regulatory burdens and costs associated with mandatory remediation of naturally occurring arsenic. There could also be debates on practicality and feasibility of implementing such rules effectively within the state's existing infrastructure.