2005 Rhode Island Code - § 23-24.9-2 — Findings.

    The general assembly has found and hereby declares that:

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

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

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

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

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