The introduction of HB 5042 could significantly impact state laws concerning funding allocations for emergency management operations in coastal regions. By earmarking $130,000 each year from the state's budget, the bill prioritizes support for public safety and emergency response through enhanced marine operations. The distributions will vary based on community involvement, with certain cities receiving $10,000 annually, while others will receive $6,000. This strategic funding could lead to improved responsiveness to emergencies that arise on the waters of Narragansett Bay.
Summary
House Bill 5042, relating to military affairs and emergency management, proposes an annual appropriation of funds specifically dedicated to the maintenance of boats used for services in Narragansett Bay. The bill aims to support coastal communities actively participating in the Narragansett Bay Marine Task Force (NBMTF). This legislation stands to enhance local emergency management capabilities by ensuring that these communities are better equipped and prepared for maritime emergency operations.
Contention
While the bill has clear intentions to fortify emergency management resources, potential points of contention may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and the distribution mechanisms among the selected coastal communities. As the bill stipulates varying amounts for different municipalities, some may argue that it lacks fairness or equitability. Such discrepancies could lead to debates about how funds should be allocated to best serve the needs of all communities participating in the task force, particularly those that might have higher demands for emergency response services.
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.
Provides the general assembly make an annual appropriation of not less than eighty thousand dollars ($80,000) to the Rhode Island emergency management agency to assist with emergency communications during major or multiple emergency incidents.
JOINT RESOLUTION MAKING AN APPROPRIATION OF $10,000,000 TO THE RHODE ISLAND COASTAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT COUNCIL (CRMC) (This resolution would authorize the appropriation of the sum of $10,000,000 to the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council.)
Replaces CRMC with a newly created division of coastal resources management, a state entity within the DEM and would transfer all authority to the DEM with duties and responsibilities to be carried out by the division of coastal resources management.