Rhode Island Senate Bill S2154

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/28/22
• Refer: 1/28/22
• Report Pass: 2/8/22
• Engrossed: 2/10/22
• Passed: 2/11/22

Caption

Concurrent Resolution Extending Power Conferred Upon The Governor Pursuant To The Provisions Of Subsection Of Title 30, Chapter 15, Section 9 Of The Rhode Island General Laws

Impact

If passed, this resolution would allow for an extension of the Governor's powers beyond the initially set limit of 180 days, imposed under Rhode Island General Laws. This extension would enable continued executive action to address public health needs without facing immediate legislative constraints while ensuring that the powers would expire after the designated time unless further extended. The resolution explicitly mandates that powers conferred will cease if the Governor determines that the emergency has abated, thus retaining checks on gubernatorial authority.

Summary

S2154 is a concurrent resolution that seeks to extend the emergency powers conferred upon the Governor of Rhode Island in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The resolution highlights the challenges posed by the Delta variant and other variants of the virus, which have resulted in heightened infection and hospitalization rates within the state. The intention behind this bill is to allow the Governor to maintain certain powers essential for managing the public health crisis effectively while ensuring that these extensions are temporally limited and subject to the oversight of the General Assembly.

Sentiment

The sentiment regarding S2154 exhibits a division among lawmakers and the public. Proponents of the bill argue that extending the Governor's emergency powers is necessary for effective pandemic response, allowing for swift action in uncertain and evolving circumstances. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding overreach and the preservation of legislative authority, emphasizing the importance of legislative involvement in disaster management decisions.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding S2154 revolve around the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches during a public health crisis. Critics fear that prolonged emergency powers may set a precedent for future governmental overreach, while supporters underscore the need for such powers to navigate ongoing uncertainties posed by COVID-19 variants. The debate reflects broader discussions about governance, public safety, and the limits of executive influence in times of crisis.