Paint recycling program proposed

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - A top Rhode Island state senator wants to create a paint recycling program.

Senate Majority Leader Dominick Ruggerio says states like Oregon and Minnesota have launched paint recycling programs that turn unneeded latex paint into new paint ready for use.

The North Providence Democrat has introduced legislation that would create a similar program in Rhode Island.

Ruggerio says paint recycling would help the environment and save landfill space.

Ruggerio says recycled paint is "virtually indistinguishable" from new paint and is sold at a lower cost. He says the only disadvantage is that recycled paint comes in a limited number of colors.

No vote on the proposal has been scheduled.