Rhode Island House Bill H8295

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/27/22
• Refer: 5/27/22
• Report Pass: 6/21/22
• Engrossed: 6/23/22
• Enrolled: 6/23/22
• Passed: 6/29/22

Caption

Hurricane, Storm And Flood Standards

Impact

The bill emphasizes the importance of revising dam safety standards to incorporate the effects of climate change. This includes recognizing potential sea-level rise and its implications for high, significant, and low hazard dams. By addressing these vulnerabilities, HB 8295 seeks to ensure that construction practices are robust enough to withstand severe weather events, which are projected to increase in frequency and intensity due to climate change. This updated code is expected to enhance public safety and minimize damage to property during such extreme weather occurrences.

Summary

House Bill 8295 aims to amend the state's building code standards concerning hurricane, storm, and flood resistance by introducing provisions that consider the impacts of climate change. This bill mandates that the state building code standards committee, in consultation with the building code commissioner, adopt and maintain code provisions that are reasonably aligned with recognized standards, particularly for existing buildings. A significant focus of the bill is on climatic changes and the need for enhanced resilience against flooding, especially in inundation areas existing beneath various classified dams.

Contention

While the bill received overwhelming support, with a voting result of 71 yeas and 0 nays, there may still be discussions surrounding how these changes will be implemented practically. Critics may voice concerns regarding the costs associated with upgrading existing structures and compliance burdens on property owners and builders. There's also an ongoing debate about the balance between state regulations and local needs, which could manifest in discussions about authority and enforcement as related to these updated standards.