Concurrent Resolution Terminating The Current Declaration Of State Emergency And All Executive Orders Commencing On January 11, 2023, Through February 9, 2023
If enacted, H5056 would effectively conclude emergency powers exercised by the Governor, specifically the powers established under Executive Order 20-02, which initiated a state of emergency on March 9, 2020. The resolution would terminate existing measures that have been in place for public health and safety, thus allowing the state to operate under non-emergency conditions while potentially impacting ongoing public health guidelines that were established during the emergency period.
House Bill H5056 is a concurrent resolution aimed at terminating the existing declaration of a state emergency in Rhode Island due to the ongoing impacts of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This resolution also seeks to end all associated executive orders that have been issued since January 11, 2023. The bill was introduced by Representatives Newberry, Place, Roberts, Nardone, Chippendale, and Rea, and it reflects a shift in legislative focus from emergency measures to normal operations in the state.
The proposal to end the state of emergency has sparked debate among various community members and legislators. Proponents of H5056 argue that it is a necessary step towards restoring normalcy and empowering citizens and local governments to regain control over their public health policies. Conversely, opponents express concern that prematurely ending the emergency status could undermine public health measures, particularly in maintaining safety protocols and securing resources necessary to combat COVID-19 effectively.