Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7926

Introduced
2/27/26  
Refer
2/27/26  
Report Pass
4/14/26  
Engrossed
4/28/26  

Caption

Removes obsolete language and clarifies asbestos abatement and radon control requirements.

Impact

If enacted, H7926 would modify several sections in the state's asbestos abatement statute, enhancing the clarity of definitions related to asbestos and radon. It introduces more stringent compliance requirements for contractors and public entities engaged in these activities, including a clear licensure process for asbestos contractors. The adjustments intended by the bill are expected to bolster the effectiveness of state efforts in protecting public health from the dangers posed by asbestos and radon exposure, particularly in high-priority buildings such as schools and daycare centers.

Summary

House Bill 7926 focuses on updating and clarifying existing laws pertaining to asbestos abatement and radon control in Rhode Island. The bill aims to remove obsolete language from the current statutes and to improve regulations regarding the abatement process of friable asbestos. Its essential goal is to streamline the procedures surrounding asbestos inspection and handling, ensuring that public buildings, private residences, and industrial sites comply with health and safety standards to minimize potential exposure risks to the public.

Contention

The discussions regarding H7926 highlighted concerns from various stakeholders about the implications of stricter control measures and the feasibility of contractors adhering to the new standards. While supporters argue that these revisions are necessary for enhancing public safety and environmental protection, critics express concern over potential increases in costs and regulatory burdens on contractors and businesses involved in renovation and demolition projects. The challenge lies in balancing public health objectives with practical implementation aspects for contractors in the state.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5615

Revises sections of the uniform controlled substances act to remove specific opioid dosage requirements, revises the uniform controlled substances act in accordance with current standards of professional practice and would repeal chapter 37.4 of title 5.

RI H5160

Clarifies what a contract modification is, namely any change in producer compensation.

RI S0315

Clarifies what a contract modification is, namely any change in producer compensation.

RI S0608

Standardizes successor appointment language for various boards and adds language providing that a quorum be a majority of appointed members and the language applies across several healthcare professional boards that currently lack this language.

RI H5550

Standardizes successor appointment language for various boards and adds language providing that a quorum be a majority of appointed members and the language applies across several healthcare professional boards that currently lack this language.

RI H5977

Removes language that requires the department of elementary and secondary education to prorate funds to school districts in certain situations and eliminate funding for certain programs.

RI S0369

SENATE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER AS SUBSTANCE USE RECOVERY AWARENESS MONTH IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND CALLING FOR THE END OF STIGMA AND EMPOWERING RECOVERY THROUGH LANGUAGE IN RHODE ISLAND

RI S0489

Precludes any legal entity from possessing, controlling or otherwise claiming legal title to real property exceeding an aggregate value of twenty-five million dollars ($25,000,000) in single-family dwellings or multi-family dwellings.

RI S0448

Removes funding requirement from department of elementary and secondary education.

RI H6356

HOUSE RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING SEPTEMBER AS SUBSTANCE USE RECOVERY AWARENESS MONTH IN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND CALLING FOR THE END OF STIGMA AND EMPOWERING RECOVERY THROUGH LANGUAGE IN RHODE ISLAND

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.