Provides for an annual appropriation of state funds to RI emergency management agency to be distributed to coastal communities who are members of the Narragansett Bay Marine Task Force for the maintenance of boats providing services to Narragansett Bay.
Impact
The act is designed to enhance local capabilities to manage marine resources effectively by ensuring that coastal communities have the necessary financial support for the upkeep of their boats. This funding model could potentially lead to improved emergency response times and greater overall preparedness for marine-related incidents in the Bay. Furthermore, the establishment of a designated appropriation method signifies a formal commitment from the state to support local government initiatives associated with marine management.
Summary
Bill S2164 addresses the allocation of state funding to support emergency management efforts specifically for coastal communities involved in the Narragansett Bay Marine Task Force (NBMTF). The legislation mandates that the Rhode Island General Assembly appropriates a total of $130,000 annually, which would be shared among various municipalities that participate in the NBMTF. This funding is intended to assist these communities in maintaining the boats that provide essential services to Narragansett Bay, a critical ecological and economic resource in the state.
Contention
While the bill's intent may be broadly supported as a means of improving emergency management frameworks, potential points of contention could arise regarding the sufficiency of the allocated funds versus the actual needs of the communities. Critics may argue whether the $130,000 allocation is adequate to cover the maintenance costs of boats for all participating communities or if it disproportionately favors larger municipalities compared to smaller ones. The bill includes a sunset provision, indicating that the funding will only remain available until July 1, 2032, which may raise concerns about the long-term sustainability of marine services in the region.
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay (creates A 13 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By May 31, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)
Joint Resolution Creating A Special Legislative Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay (creates A 13 Member Joint Commission To Study And Provide Recommendations On The Issues Relating To The Reduced Catch Of Quahogs In Narragansett Bay, And Who Would Report Back To The General Assembly By May 31, 2024, And Expire On June 30, 2024.)
House Resolution Welcoming The Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts Of America, To The Rhode Island State House For The Presentation Of Their 2022 "report To The State"
Senate Resolution Welcoming The Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts Of America, To The Rhode Island State House For The Presentation Of Their 2022 "report To The State"