Rhode Island General Laws Title 16. Education § 16-21-37. Water bottle filling stations in new and renovated schools

(1) Water plays an important role in maintaining a child's overall health;

(2) Drinking water can positively impact children's cognitive performance;

(3) Drinking water can improve children's fine motor skills and visual attention, which helps with learning activities, such as reading;

(4) Drinking water can help people maintain a healthier weight.

(1) A minimum of one water bottle filling station per one hundred (100) people projected to occupy the building upon completion of the proposed construction;

(2) A minimum of one water bottle filling station on each floor and on each wing of each school building;

(3) A minimum of one water bottle filling station located in or near gymnasiums, cafeterias, and other high-traffic areas;

(4) Water bottle filling stations may be integrated into drinking fountains; and

(5) Schools are encouraged to install touchless water bottle filling stations for sanitary reasons.

(1) Dispense clean, cooled, filtered drinking water;

(2) Be regularly cleaned to maintain sanitary conditions; and

(3) Be maintained on a regular basis to ensure it functions properly.

(1) Water bottles shall be made of material that is not easily breakable;

(2) Water bottles shall have a lid to prevent spills;

(3) Water bottles shall be used exclusively for water and no other beverage;

(4) Water bottles shall be allowed in classrooms, but may be excluded from libraries, computer labs, science labs, and other places where it is deemed dangerous to have drinking water;

(5) Misuse of water bottles may be subject to disciplinary action.