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SB 406

AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- MICROPLASTICS REDUCTION ACT

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Lou DiPalma and 6 co-sponsors

Rhode Island bill restricts microplastics in consumer products to reduce environmental and human health exposure from plastic pollution entering water systems and food chains.

04/30/2025 Committee recommended measure be held for further study
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Bill Summary · SB 406

Legislative bill overview

SB 406, Rhode Island's Microplastics Reduction Act, aims to restrict or eliminate microplastics from consumer products and industrial applications. The bill addresses the growing concern over microplastic pollution in water systems, soil, and food chains. Specific restrictions likely target cosmetics, personal care products, synthetic textiles, and other common sources of microplastic contamination.

Why is this important

Microplastics have been detected in human blood, lungs, and organs, raising public health concerns that are still being studied. Rhode Island's coastal geography and reliance on marine resources make the state particularly vulnerable to microplastic bioaccumulation in seafood and drinking water. Early state-level action could establish a regulatory model and create market incentives for alternative materials before federal standards are established.

Potential points of contention

  • Industry compliance costs: Manufacturers may face significant reformulation expenses, potentially increasing consumer product prices and creating competitive disadvantages versus out-of-state competitors
  • Definitional ambiguity: "Microplastics" is a technically complex term; overly broad definitions could inadvertently restrict beneficial products, while narrow ones may miss significant pollution sources
  • Enforcement and jurisdiction: Difficulty monitoring imported products and enforcement across state lines; federal preemption concerns if similar laws exist elsewhere

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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