Attorney General Neronha issues statement on Rhode Island Recycled Metals Decision

Published on Friday, December 13, 2024

Attorney General Peter F. Neronha today issued a statement following Superior Court Justice Brian P. Stern's Decision on the Office's motion seeking modification of the Special Mastership.

"Today's decision represents a hard-fought victory for environmental protection and for the health and safety of RIRM's surrounding communities, and I am grateful to Judge Stern for his thoughtful and thorough decision on this matter. While we still believe that a full receivership is the best path forward, we are encouraged by the significant additional safeguards provided by this decision. As a result of today's decision, the Special Master will now have complete control and management of the site's environmental permitting process and compliance, including site remediation and stormwater pollution prevention. Rhode Island Recycled Metals has long caused significant harm to the residents of South Providence, and more or less gotten away with it, for over 10 years. That stops now. We will continue to be vigilant in ensuring RIRM's environmental compliance at this site and with this new Order, and we certainly won't hesitate to take further action if necessary."