The introduction of this bill reflects a growing recognition of the importance of environmental justice in climate conversations. By including a representative focused on environmental justice, the legislation emphasizes the need to consider how climate change disproportionately affects low-income and minority communities. The advisory board is tasked with advising the council on plans and strategies for climate change mitigation and adaptation, fostering public understanding and engagement in climate issues, and providing an avenue for community input into government actions.
Summary
Bill S3043, also known as the 2021 Act on Climate, aims to strengthen Rhode Island's response to climate change by establishing an advisory board designed to coordinate climate-related actions and policies. The bill amends Section 42-6.2-4 of the General Laws to increase the membership of the executive climate change coordinating council advisory board from 13 to 14 members. This includes appointing a member of the public with expertise in environmental justice, allowing for broader representation of community concerns, particularly those from vulnerable populations.
Contention
However, there may be points of contention surrounding the implementation of the bill, particularly regarding the effectiveness and accountability of the advisory board. Some legislators may question whether the inclusion of additional members genuinely enhances community representation or merely serves to meet compliance with environmental justice standards without substantial impact. Critics might argue that without sufficient powers, the advisory board could merely function as an advisory body with limited influence over policy decisions.
Notable_points
S3043 also ensures regular meetings and annual reporting as a means of maintaining transparency and accountability, which is critical for tracking the effectiveness of climate initiatives. The legislation, therefore, not only aims to address climate change but also seeks to ensure that developments are communicated back to the communities they affect, highlighting a shift towards a more inclusive governance model in addressing environmental issues.
Requires the chief resilience officer (CRO) be charged with creation/maintenance/updating of the state's resiliency/recovery program along with climate change resiliency plan with ocean/riverine coasts resilience advisory board.
Requires the chief resilience officer (CRO) and a resiliency office within the department of environmental management (DEM) be charged with the creation, maintenance and updating of the state's resiliency and community recovery program.