Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7857

Introduced

2/27/26

Refer

2/27/26

Caption

RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY -- COMMERCIAL KITCHEN EXHAUST SYSTEM, INSPECTION AND CLEANING, LICENSING AND CERTIFICATION ACT

Impact

The legislation aims to amend Title 23 of the General Laws to introduce new regulations stipulating that any individual or entity conducting the inspection or cleaning of commercial kitchen exhaust systems in Rhode Island must hold a valid license issued by the Office of State Fire Marshal (OSFM). This new framework is intended to ensure that professional standards are maintained in these critical safety operations, thereby reducing the risks associated with improper cleaning and inspection of commercial kitchen systems.

Summary

House Bill H7857 proposes the establishment of the Commercial Kitchen Exhaust System Inspection and Cleaning Licensing and Certification Act. This act is designed to ensure that inspections and cleaning of commercial kitchen exhaust systems are conducted by licensed and certified professionals. The bill arises from concerns regarding the potential dangers of contaminated exhaust systems, emphasizing the importance of fire safety regulations to protect lives and properties in commercial settings.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its focus on enhancing public safety and adherence to fire safety standards, some concerns may arise regarding the compliance costs that businesses could face for licensing fees and the need for certified technicians. The requirement of a license and a certification process may also raise questions about accessibility for smaller operators in the restaurant and catering industry. There could be discussions around ensuring that these regulations do not impose an undue burden on local businesses while still achieving the intended safety objectives.

Latest RI H7857 Activity

View All Events: RI 2026 Regular Session H7857

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6056

Authorizes the sale of THC-infused beverages to be regulated by the DBR division of commercial licensing. It also establishes licensing and an endorsement process for wholesale and retail THC-infused beverages.

RI S0984

JOINT RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE CANNABIS CONTROL COMMISSION PROVIDE THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY WITH RECOMMENDATIONS ON LEGISLATION TO REGULATE AND LICENSE CANNABINOIDS AND HEMP-DERIVED BEVERAGES (Authorizes the sale of THC-infused beverages to be regulated by the DBR division of commercial licensing. It also establishes licensing and an endorsement process for wholesale and retail THC-infused beverages.)

RI S0200

Spells out the responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant with respect to the inspection and treatment of bed bugs in residential premises.

RI S0567

Requires healthcare facilities that perform abortions meet the license requirements of similar healthcare facilities and allows the department of health to conduct unannounced inspections.

RI S0498

Exempts from taxation the non-commercial real and tangible personal property of Southside Community Land Trust, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in Providence, Rhode Island.

RI S0021

Extends teacher certifications without fee or penalty for three (3) or five (5) years for teachers who hold certifications as of July 1, 2025.

RI H5743

Extends teacher certifications without fee or penalty for three (3) or five (5) years for teachers who hold certifications as of July 1, 2025.

RI S0689

Create the “Embryo Safety and Storage Act of 2025.” Also requires the department of health to regulate and license embryo storage facilities.

RI S0432

Exempts from the sales tax firearm safety equipment, storage devices, gun safes, gun cabinets, gun vaults, gun cases, strong boxes, cable locks, trigger locks and biometric locks.

RI H6014