§ 23-24.9-2 - Findings. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 23-24.9-2

   § 23-24.9-2  Findings. – The general assembly has found and hereby declares that:

   (1) Mercury is a persistent and toxic pollutant thatbioaccumulates in the environment;

   (2) Mercury deposition has proven to be a significant problemin the northeastern United States;

   (3) Consumption of mercury-contaminated freshwater fish posesa significant public health threat to the residents of Rhode Island;

   (4) In order to address these real threats to public healthand the environment, the state has been and should continue to activelycooperate with other states in the region to help minimize harm resulting frommercury in food, soil, air and water; and

   (5) The intent of this chapter is to achieve significantreductions in environmental mercury by encouraging the establishment ofeffective waste reduction, recycling, management and education programs.