Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7712

Introduced
2/28/24  
Refer
2/28/24  
Report Pass
4/23/24  
Engrossed
5/2/24  
Refer
5/13/24  
Report Pass
5/28/24  
Engrossed
5/30/24  
Refer
5/31/24  
Report Pass
6/4/24  
Engrossed
6/6/24  

Caption

Designates the appropriate authority on air space issues as the president and CEO of the Rhode Island airport corporation and aligns certain job titles with their proper responsibilities relative to aeronautics.

Impact

The bill's passage would significantly impact state laws related to aeronautics, particularly by reinforcing the role of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation in managing airport operations and air navigation facilities. By centralizing authority, the bill is expected to foster better coordination between various aviation-related entities and ensure that regulations are enforced uniformly. Such consolidation may also enhance collaboration with federal agencies, thereby improving infrastructure development and operational safety across air traffic systems in the state.

Summary

House Bill 7712 aims to designate the president and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation as the authoritative figure on all air space issues within the state. It seeks to align job titles with their relevant responsibilities regarding aeronautics and amends several key chapters in state law that relate to airports and landing fields. The bill reflects an effort to streamline operations and improve regulatory clarity by consolidating authority into a single position, enhancing accountability and efficiency in the governance of air transportation in Rhode Island.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding H7712 appears largely positive, emphasizing the need for clear lines of authority and responsibility in an area critical to public safety and economic development. Proponents argue that this shift will result in a more effective management structure that can swiftly address aeronautical issues. However, some stakeholders may express concerns regarding the implications of this centralization, particularly with respect to local governance and the responsiveness to community needs.

Contention

Potential points of contention regarding H7712 include concerns raised by local governments about their diminished role in airspace and airport-related decision-making. Critics might argue that consolidating authority in a single executive could lead to a disconnect between local interests and state-level oversight, making it challenging for communities to address specific needs related to aircraft operations and land use. Furthermore, the bill's provisions regarding noise management and emissions could evoke debate regarding their adequacy and enforcement mechanisms.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5419

Airports And Landing Fields

RI S0610

Airports And Landing Fields

RI H5840

Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

RI S0713

Rhode Island Commerce Corporation

RI H6405

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $22,775,000 To The Rhode Island Airport Corporation For Repairs To The Pier At 1390 Roger Williams Way, North Kingstown, Ri 02852 (the Former Aircraft Carrier Pier) (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $22,775,000 To The Rhode Island Airport Corporation For Reconstruction And Upgrades To The Pier At 1390 Roger Williams Way, North Kingstown, Ri 02852.)

RI H5839

Rhode Island Business Corporation Act

RI S0991

Rhode Island Public Transit Authority

RI H5259

Airports And Landing Fields

RI S0985

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $28,000,000 To Olneyville Housing Corporation (dba One Neighborhood Builders), In Partnership With Crossroads Ri, Foster Forward, And Family Service Of Rhode Island (authorizes The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $28,000,000 To Olneyville Housing Corporation (dba One Neighborhood Builders), In Partnership With Crossroads Ri, Foster Forward, And Family Service Of Rhode Island.)

RI S0774

Joint Resolution Making An Appropriation Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College (this Resolution Would Authorize The Appropriation Of The Sum Of $738,088 To Rhode Island College To Fund Rhode Island College Hsi Status And Student Supports.)

Similar Bills

RI S2740

Designates the appropriate authority on air space issues as the president and CEO of the Rhode Island airport corporation and aligns certain job titles with their proper responsibilities relative to aeronautics.

RI H5419

Airports And Landing Fields

RI S0610

Airports And Landing Fields

CT HB06823

An Act Concerning The Connecticut Airport Authority's Recommendations Regarding Operation Of The Authority, Airport Development Zone Administration And The Authority's Jurisdiction Over Aeronautics In The State.

CT HB05202

An Act Implementing The Recommendations Of The Connecticut Airport Authority.

HI HB434

Relating To Aircraft.

OK SB659

Aircraft and airports; creating the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Development Act of 2021. Effective date.

OK HB2174

Aircraft and airports; creating the Unmanned Aerial Systems Efficiency Act of 2021; effective date.