HOUSE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE RULES OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR THE YEARS 2023 AND 2024 (Authorizes the Speaker and the Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian American and Pacific Islander (RIBLIA) Caucus to request equity impact statements on up to five (5) proposed bills.)
Impact
If enacted, H5010 will authorize the Speaker of the House and the Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian American and Pacific Islander (RIBLIA) Caucus to request equity impact statements on up to five proposed public bills each year. These statements will provide data on historical and existing disparities and potential demographic impacts of the legislation, including economic effects and support for minority-owned businesses. Such provisions intend to promote transparency and accountability in legislative actions, ensuring that marginalized groups are considered during the law-making process.
Summary
House Bill H5010 proposes an amendment to the rules governing the House of Representatives for the years 2023 and 2024. The main aim of the bill is to introduce the requirement for equity impact statements, which are designed to assist legislators in assessing how proposed legislation might influence various equity considerations, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender identity, and economic status. This initiative reflects a growing emphasis on ensuring that legislative processes are inclusive and consider the diverse impacts of proposed laws on various demographics within the state.
Contention
The introduction of equity impact statements may stir debate within the legislative body. Proponents argue that these statements are essential for informed decision-making and can help address systemic inequalities that have persisted in society. Critics, however, may view the requirement as an administrative burden that could complicate the legislative process and delay the passage of bills. Additionally, the effectiveness of equity impact statements may depend significantly on the quality of data available and the willingness of legislators to consider these findings seriously in their deliberations.
Requires the Rhode Island general assembly to address its legislation with attention to equity and the impact its legislation will have on Rhode Island's diverse and various communities.
House Resolution Adopting The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024 (this Resolution Would Adopt The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2023 And 2024.)
House Resolution Amending The Rules Of The House Of Representatives For The Years 2021 And 2022 (this Resolution Would Require The Clerk Of The House To Prepare And Publish In The House Journal An Index Of All Rulings Made By The Speaker.)