Rhode Island House Bill H5972

Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/1/23

Caption

Concurrent Resolution Terminating The Current Declaration Of State Emergency And All Executive Orders Commencing On February 9, 2023, Through March 11, 2023

Impact

The termination of the state emergency invokes notable implications for the governance structure in Rhode Island. By ending the executive orders tied to this emergency status, the bill aims to return authority and regulatory powers that were temporarily concentrated in the executive branch back to the legislative and municipal levels. This shift is crucial in reinstating the normal democratic processes and claims to restore public trust in governance. However, the resolution also raises distinct concerns about preparedness for ongoing public health matters and the management of future crises.

Summary

House Bill H5972 is a concurrent resolution aimed at terminating the existing declaration of a state of emergency in Rhode Island, alongside all executive orders that were enacted as a result. This bill has been introduced following an extended state of emergency that was declared by previous governors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, officially initiated with Executive Order 20-02 in March 2020. The resolution is particularly significant as it marks a shift towards a return to normal governance and the potential end of special directives that were in place during the pandemic.

Contention

There are anticipated discussions and debates surrounding the resolution. While proponents argue that it empowers the legislature and local governments, allowing for more localized decision-making, opponents may contend that lifting such emergency powers before the public health threats are entirely mitigated could be premature. The ongoing threats posed by COVID-19 variants or other public health emergencies could present a point of contention, as some may argue that continued preparedness measures should remain in place despite the formal end of the emergency declaration. Ultimately, the resolution encapsulates broader discussions around executive power, public health policy, and local governance versus state authority.