Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0197

Introduced
2/16/23  

Caption

Coastal Resources Management Council

Impact

The proposed changes will enhance local governance by mandating that at least half of the council's appointed municipal officials must come from coastal municipalities. This aims to ensure that the perspectives and needs of coastal communities are adequately represented in discussions and decisions regarding resource management and environmental stewardship in these areas. Additionally, the governor's appointments require Senate approval, promoting accountability.

Summary

Bill S0197 focuses on amending the structure and appointment process of the Coastal Resources Management Council in Rhode Island. The legislation aims to ensure that the council includes a more diverse representation of stakeholders involved in coastal resources management. This includes the introduction of public members representing specific interests: an active, licensed fisher, a representative from 'Save the Bay', and an entity that represents developers, reflecting the varied interests that coastal management must balance.

Contention

While supporters of S0197 argue that the inclusion of diverse interests will facilitate better decision-making and accountability in managing Rhode Island's coastal resources, there may be contention regarding the influence of specific groups such as developers. Critics may express concerns that the bill tilts the balance towards commercial interests, potentially undermining environmental protections in favor of development. This reflects ongoing debates about how best to manage coastal resources in a way that fosters economic growth while preserving the environment.

Notable_points

The act also highlights a procedural aspect where current appointments by the governor remain validated through this legislation. The inclusion of advisory members representing federal agencies indicates an intention to align state policies with broader environmental goals, potentially fostering collaboration between state and federal levels. This could create a framework for addressing significant coastal issues, such as dredging and pollution control, while involving local stakeholders more robustly.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H8323

Coastal Resources Management Council

RI S0772

Coastal Resources Management Council

RI H6034

Coastal Resources Management Council

RI S0998

Reforms the composition of the coastal resources management council to seven (7) members.

RI H6126

Reforms the composition of the coastal resources management council to seven (7) members.

RI H7844

Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfers all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.

RI S2928

Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfers all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.

RI H8148

Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfers all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.

RI H5706

Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfer all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.

RI S0775

Replaces the coastal resources management council with a state department of coastal resources and transfer all of the powers and duties between the two (2) authorities.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.