Extension of Task Force to Tackle Plastics

WHEREAS, an Executive Order was issued to create the Task Force to Tackle Plastics ("Task Force") for the purpose of advising the Governor on actions to encourage the financial and market factors necessary to support reduction in recycling of plastics, develop non-regulatory recognition and incentive programs, support and build upon the Zero Plastics Marina Initiative, and educate Rhode Islanders on the importance and means to reducing and recycling plastics;

WHEREAS, much has been accomplished through this Task Force since its establishment in July 2018, culminating in recommendations to the Governor that included (1) encouraging and facilitating voluntary reduction of single-use plastics by Rhode Island entities; (2) reducing the number of single-use bags in Rhode Island by establishing a ban on single-use plastic check-out bags and pairing that change with increased availability of free reusable bags; (3) increasing awareness of plastics pollution and recycling and its implications; and (4) supporting innovation related, but not limited, to single-use disposables;

WHEREAS, the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the Rhode Island Resource Recovery Corporation, and the other State agencies remain committed to protecting the health and quality of our lands, waters, and communities;

WHEREAS, although the Task Force took a critical first step in addressing the use, reuse, and clean-up of plastics in Rhode Island, there remains much work to be done to further the policy goal of developing stronger plastics reduction policies at the state level;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gina M. Raimondo, by virtue of the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, do hereby order and direct the following:

1. The Task Force shall be extended for a period of eighteen months from the effective date of this order.
2. Members of the Task Force shall be appointed by the Governor and shall serve at the pleasure of the Governor.
3. The duties and purpose of the Task Force remain the same as those outlined in Executive Order 18-06, signed on July 16t \ 2018.
4. The Task Force will provide recommendations to the Governor on or about October 1 st, 2020. These recommendations shall include, but not be limited to:
   
   1. Further development, prioritization, and execution of the short and long-term recommendations in the February 14t \ 2019 report to the Governor;
   2. Creation of the most effective environment possible for innovation related to reduction of single-use disposables and plastic pollution in Rhode Island;
   3. Catalyzation of behavior changes related to single-use disposables, including recycling bottles and packaging; and
   4. d. Support for environmental justice communities as it relates to plastics alternatives and the impacts of plastic materials.

This Executive Order shall take effect immediately.

So Ordered,

Gina M. Raimondo

Governor