Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H8043

Introduced
3/8/24  

Caption

Requires executive climate change coordinating council (EC4) to develop a template to be used by all agencies of the state to track their climate emissions to uphold the pathway to Rhode Island's act on climate legislative goals.

Impact

The legislative measure is poised to significantly impact state laws surrounding environmental accountability. By institutionalizing emissions tracking, H8043 will enable Rhode Island to monitor its progress towards achieving climate goals more effectively. The standardized approach aims to facilitate inter-agency comparisons and evaluations, thereby promoting enhanced strategic planning in state efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, regular updates mandated every five years will help to ensure that agencies remain aligned with evolving climate agendas, reinforcing a proactive legislative posture towards environmental sustainability.

Summary

House Bill H8043 requires the Executive Climate Change Coordinating Council (EC4) to create a standardized template for all state agencies in Rhode Island to report their climate emissions. This initiative aims to align state agency operations with the broader goals established under the state's ‘Act on Climate’ legislation. By mandating a structured reporting system, the bill emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in how state entities address their environmental impact. The information collected will include data on energy usage, fleet operations, and renewable energy systems utilized by the agencies.

Contention

While the bill has the potential for positive environmental outcomes, discussions may arise surrounding the resource allocation required for agencies to comply with these new reporting mandates. Some entities may express concerns about the feasibility and costs associated with gathering and maintaining accurate emissions data. Furthermore, as with many climate-related legislative efforts, there might be pushback from stakeholders who fear that such regulations could impose additional bureaucratic hurdles or financial burdens on state operations. Nonetheless, proponents argue that the long-term environmental benefits and alignment with climate goals will outweigh such concerns.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H6105

The Rhode Island Climate Change And Ocean Protection Workforce Development Act

RI S0551

The Rhode Island Climate Change And Ocean Protection Workforce Development Act

RI H6178

2021 Act On Climate

RI S0499

2021 Act On Climate

RI S0858

2021 Act On Climate

RI H6106

The Rhode Island Climate Change And Ocean Protection Education Program Act

RI S0558

The Rhode Island Climate Change And Ocean Protection Education Program Act

RI H5865

2021 Act On Climate

RI H5394

Rhode Island Pathways Project

RI H5098

Rhode Island Pathways Project

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.